CJN Summons Judges Over Conflicting Orders on Kano Emirate
The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, has summoned the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice John Tsoho, and the Chief Judge of Kano State High Court, Justice Dije Aboki, over conflicting interim injunctions concerning the Kano Emirate, which have caused significant confusion in the state.
The Federal High Court in Kano recently ordered the eviction of Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II, while the Kano State High Court ordered the eviction of the deposed Emir Aminu Ado Bayero.
As Chairman of the National Judicial Council (NJC), Justice Ariwoola has called for an emergency meeting with the two judges on May 30, 2024. The NJC’s Director of Information, Soji Oye, stated that the meeting aims to address the troubling conflicting judgments and is a precursor to a broader investigation by the NJC.
The NJC is expected to hold an emergency meeting next week to investigate the judges involved further.
The Federal High Court in Kano, presided over by Justice S. A. Amobeda, issued an order affirming the authority of Emir Aminu Ado Bayero and preventing any harassment against him. Meanwhile, the Kano State High Court, under Justice Amina Adamu Aliyu, issued an injunction protecting Muhammadu Sanusi II from potential state harassment and the confiscation of symbols of his authority.
These conflicting orders have created uncertainty over the rightful authority and protection of the emirs in Kano. The case at the State High Court is scheduled for further hearing on June 13, while the Federal High Court has adjourned its case to June 4.
