Olusegun Ariyo
Kano State Government has expressed satisfaction with the recent Court of Appeal judgment that upheld its reforms of traditional institutions and overturned earlier rulings by the Federal High Court concerning the Kano Emirate Council.
Speaking at a press conference held at the NUJ Press Centre in Kano on Saturday, January 11, 2025, key government officials, including the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, the Commissioner for Information, as well as 44 Local Government Chairmen, jointly addressed the media. They reaffirmed the state’s commitment to justice, fairness, and the modernization of traditional institutions while preserving Kano’s cultural heritage.
The appellate court’s ruling validated the actions of the Kano State Government on chieftaincy appointments and reforms, declaring them lawful and constitutional. The judgment also clarified jurisdiction over chieftaincy matters, stating that the Federal High Court had no authority to intervene in such issues.
“All decisions, pronouncements, and orders made by the Federal High Court in Kano have been quashed and set aside by the Court of Appeal,” said Attorney General Barr. Haruna Isa Dederi on behalf of the government. “The law enacted by the Kano State House of Assembly regarding Emirates and all actions taken by His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Kano State, according to that law, has been fully upheld and legalized by the Court of Appeal.”
The judgment strengthens the government’s reforms aimed at ensuring equitable representation, inclusive governance, and the empowerment of traditional institutions to benefit all Kano residents.
The government urged individuals, public institutions, and private organizations to respect and implement the Court of Appeal’s decision. “We extend our gratitude to the Judiciary for upholding the principles of justice and fairness,” the statement read. “The Kano State Government remains committed to working harmoniously with traditional institutions to foster development and unity across all emirates.”
In a call for unity, the government encouraged all stakeholders to set aside differences and collaborate to promote peace and progress in the state.
