In a significant ruling on Friday, the Federal High Court in Kano upheld the rights of the deposed Emir of Kano, Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero.
The court confirmed that the Emir’s rights to move freely and enjoy civil liberties were violated.
Justice Simon Amobeda, the presiding judge, ordered the Kano State Government to pay N10 million in damages to the former Emir.
The judge noted that the Emir’s legal team withdrew some of their initial requests, which was their right to do.
The court first addressed whether it had the authority to hear the case, deciding that it did because the issue involved fundamental human rights.
Justice Amobeda emphasized the court’s role in protecting citizens’ rights, stating that the Emir had provided clear evidence of his rights being violated.
Beyond Boders recalls that in 2019, the Kano State Government appointed a new emir through the kingmakers.
However, on May 23, 2024, the government used social media to announce the Emir’s deposition and ordered his arrest, giving him 48 hours to leave the palace.
“The applicant is threatened, breaching his fundamental rights to liberty as guaranteed in Section 35(1) of the 1999 Constitution,” stated Justice Amobeda.
He also ordered the police and other security forces to stop any actions against the Emir, including arrest, detention, or harassment.
Finally, Justice Amobeda ruled that the Kano State Government and the police must pay N10 million for violating the Emir’s rights. The court did not approve the request for the costs of filing and prosecuting the case.
