The Kano State Police Command has affirmed its commitment to comply with a Federal High Court order mandating all parties in the ongoing Kano Emirate controversy to maintain the status quo.
Commissioner of Police Usaini Gumel, addressing newsmen alongside heads of other security agencies, emphasized the police’s strict adherence to the court’s directive issued on May 23, 2024. The order prevents the enforcement of the Kano State Emirates Council (Amendment Number 2) Law, 2024, which facilitated the reinstatement of Muhammadu Sanusi II as the 16th Emir of Kano.
“The police command is expressly obeying the Court Order with SUIT No. FHC/KN/CS/182/2024 dated 23rd May, 2024, issued by the federal high court sitting in Kano, alongside all law enforcement agents in the state,” stated Gumel.
Gumel also clarified that the alleged order by Governor Abba Yusuf to arrest Aminu Ado Bayero, which has been circulating on social media, was not formally transmitted to the police.
“The police in the state are working together with the military and other security agencies to provide adequate security to everyone. We are committed to carrying out our statutory duties as provided by the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” Gumel added.
This statement came amid rising tensions following the controversial reinstatement of Emir Sanusi II and the legal and political challenges surrounding it. Gumel was accompanied by a brigade commander of the Nigerian Army and officials from other security agencies during the press briefing.
The court order serves to halt the implementation of the new emirate law, which has been a point of contention in Kano State’s political landscape. The law’s repeal aimed to dissolve the five emirate councils established in 2019 and reinstate Sanusi II, who was deposed by former Governor Abdullahi Ganduje.
As the situation unfolds, the police have reassured the public of their commitment to maintaining peace and upholding the law during this period of uncertainty.