Senior Advocate of Nigeria, West Idahosa, has advised the Federal High Court to refrain from involving itself in the ongoing Emirship dispute between Aminu Ado Bayero and Muhammadu Sanusi II in Kano State. Idahosa stated this on Arise tv where he emphasized that chieftaincy matters are strictly under the jurisdiction of state laws, as reaffirmed by the recent Court of Appeal ruling in Abuja.
The Court of Appeal ruled that the Federal High Court lacks jurisdiction over chieftaincy disputes, a decision that sparked widespread celebration among supporters of Muhammadu Sanusi II in Kano. Many viewed the ruling as a validation of Sanusi’s position as the Emir of Kano. Jubilant supporters expressed their joy, with one stating, “We are so much happy with this decision. This is what we expected, and it confirms Muhammadu Sanusi II remains our Emir.”
In contrast, supporters of Aminu Ado Bayero gathered at his palace, awaiting the court’s judgment. Although Bayero made a brief appearance to acknowledge his supporters, palace officials declined to comment on the ruling. With the legal battle unresolved, attention now shifts to the Kano State High Court for further proceedings.
Idahosa commended the Court of Appeal for upholding the law and clarifying that the federal court has no authority over traditional leadership issues. He criticized the initial involvement of the Federal High Court, describing it as an overreach into state matters. Idahosa referenced a landmark case involving the Governor of Gongola State to illustrate that fundamental human rights cannot be used as a basis to interfere in chieftaincy affairs.
Highlighting procedural lapses in the Kano State High Court, Idahosa noted that failure to ensure fair hearing for all parties, particularly Aminu Bayero, compromised the judicial process. He stressed that such breaches invalidate even the most well-reasoned judgments and underscored the necessity of giving all parties an equal opportunity to be heard.
Addressing the implications of the Court of Appeal’s ruling, Idahosa pointed out that the judgment sets a precedent for future chieftaincy disputes, urging political actors to avoid interfering in traditional institutions. He warned that politicizing traditional leadership undermines Nigeria’s cultural heritage and stability. Idahosa advocated for a harmonious relationship between modern governance and traditional institutions, emphasizing their role in fostering peace and security.
He also reflected on how traditional rulers were instrumental in maintaining peace during military regimes by utilizing grassroots structures. Idahosa encouraged political leaders to revive this approach rather than exploiting the judiciary for political gain.
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Concluding, Idahosa stressed the supremacy of the rule of law and the importance of preserving Nigeria’s cultural heritage. He called for a balance between modern governance and traditional leadership to ensure societal progress and uphold constitutional democracy.
