The Kano State government has clarified that the recent ruling by the Court of Appeal in Abuja does not invalidate the reinstatement of Muhammadu Sanusi II as the Emir of Kano. This statement comes after the Court of Appeal halted Sanusi’s reinstatement on Friday, directing all parties, including the Kano State House of Assembly, to maintain the status quo during the reign of Emir Ado Bayero.

Kano State Commissioner for Justice and Attorney General, Haruna Isa Dederi, responded by stating, “Having passed a landmark verdict on January 10, 2025, that reaffirmed the Kano State government’s authority to reappoint Sanusi, it is impossible for the Court of Appeal to set aside or overturn its own decision on the matter.”

Dederi further emphasized that the issue is “functus officio,” meaning the matter is concluded at the lower court level, and only the Supreme Court has the authority to overturn the Appeal Court’s decision. He also clarified that while the Court of Appeal ruled to maintain the current status until the Supreme Court’s judgment, the January 10, 2025, ruling still stands and is in effect.

“The Court of Appeal cannot reverse its own decision. Only the Supreme Court can set aside a ruling made by a lower court,” Dederi added, reaffirming the Kano government’s position that Sanusi’s reinstatement remains valid.

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