By Akinsuroju Olubunmi
NBA cautions against Judicial mockery in Kano crisis.
The Kano Branch of the Nigerian Bar Association has voiced concerns about recent events in the state following the repeal of the Kano Emirate Council Law of 2019.
In a statement on Saturday, Chairman Sagir Gezawa called for strict adherence to legal and constitutional processes. He emphasized that it is the constitutional duty of a state House of Assembly to legislate, and once passed, it is the governor’s role to assent to it.
“Once the governor assents, it becomes law and must be implemented by state apparatus and enforced by a competent court,” Gezawa stated.
He condemned the use of the Nigerian Army to enforce court orders, labeling it a “sad reminder of military dictatorship.” Gezawa stressed that enforcing court orders is not the military’s duty but should be handled by the courts. He explained the proper procedures for enforcing court orders, including the use of Form 48 and Form 49 if there is non-compliance, in accordance with the Sheriff and Civil Processes Act and state laws.
Gezawa urged state actors to respect their oaths of office and the limits of their duties to avoid undermining the judicial system. He warned that actions by security agencies beyond their legal scope could threaten the peace and security of Kano State.
“As an association, we call on all state actors to be mindful of their oaths of office and for the security agencies to adhere to their scope of duties to avoid making a mockery of our judicial system. They should also consider that their actions may breach the security and peace of Kano State, and they will be held accountable in this life or the next,” Gezawa warned.
Tensions in the state have risen following the arrival of the dethroned 15th Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado Bayero. Bayero was dethroned by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf on Thursday. After signing the repealed Kano Emirates Council Law, Yusuf gave Bayero and other deposed emirs 48 hours to vacate their palaces.
However, Bayero returned to Kano on Saturday, escorted by soldiers to his mini-palace.
Judicial, State.
NBA cautions against Judicial mockery in Kano crisis