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I Have the liberty to jail any of his aides for unguarded utterances against the Court decision

opera.com 2024/10/5

According to Sahara reporters, the Federal High Court in Kano has taken a firm stance in the ongoing legal battle over the Kano emirship. The presiding judge, Justice Simon Amobeda, issued a stern warning, stating, "I know the Governor has immunity, but I have the liberty to jail any of his aides for unguarded utterances against the decision of the court."

Justice Amobeda's warning came after he nullified the actions taken by Governor Abba Yusuf on May 23, 2024, regarding the Kano Emirates Council (Repeal) Law 2024. The judge ruled, "The governor's implementation of this law was a direct violation of a previous court order to maintain the status quo in the emirship dispute." However, legal experts have raised concerns, with Femi Falana noting, "The Supreme Court has previously limited the involvement of federal courts in chieftaincy disputes, stating that such matters are not considered fundamental rights."

The judge's frustration with the state government's officials, including the governor's spokesperson, Sanusi Bature, was evident. Justice Amobeda threatened, "I will imprison Bature and others for their 'unguarded utterances' against the court's decision. While the governor may have immunity, I have the authority to hold his aides accountable." The legal battle over the Kano emirship tussle remains unresolved, with conflicting court rulings and differing interpretations of the law.