Conflicting court orders have plunged the eviction of dethroned Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II into legal turmoil, with a federal court ordering his removal and a state court restraining enforcement, reigniting debates on jurisdictional boundaries in Nigeria.
In a legal quagmire that has gripped the nation, conflicting orders from federal and state courts have thrown the eviction of dethroned Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II into disarray. A Federal High Court in Kano ordered Sanusi's eviction from the Kofar Kudu Palace, while a State High Court simultaneously restrained security agencies from enforcing the eviction.
The Federal Court, in a ruling on Tuesday, directed the police to ensure all rights and privileges due to the newly appointed 15th Emir of Kano, Aminu Bayero, be granted to him as the rightful ruler. Justice S.A. Amobeda, who issued the ex parte order, stated that it was made "in the interest of justice and maintenance of peace in Kano State."
However, in a parallel development, a State High Court sitting at Miller Road issued an interim injunction restraining the police, the Department of State Services, and the military from evicting Sanusi or arresting him and his kingmakers.
The state court order, granted by Justice Amina Aliyu in a case filed by Sanusi and four Kano kingmakers, prohibits security agencies from "harassing, intimidating, inviting, arresting, and or invading the personal or official residence of the applicants." The injunction also extends to safeguarding the symbols of Sanusi's authority, including the twin spears, royal hat, ostrich-feathered shoes, and ceremonial knife and sword.
The conflicting rulings have further muddied the legal waters surrounding Sanusi's dethronement in March 2020, sparking debates about the delicate balance of power between federal and state judiciaries in Nigeria.
Legal experts have warned that the contradictory orders could potentially escalate tensions and lead to a protracted legal showdown, as both sides vow to pursue their respective judgments through all available legal channels.
