Human rights lawyer Femi Falana, SAN, has stated that Kano State must maintain only one Emir, in line with the Court of Appeal’s ruling.
He emphasized that the 16th Emir of Kano will remain in his position despite strong opposition.
Speaking at the 21st Memorial Lecture of Chief Gani Fawehinmi in Lagos, Falana expressed his support for the Court of Appeal’s decision. He explained that the law regarding the issue is settled, and although opponents may attempt to take the matter to the Supreme Court, the legal standing is clear. He also noted that the Nigerian Bar Association should intervene in such matters, pointing out that traditional institutions are not related to fundamental rights enforcement, and traditional rulers cannot seek to enforce such rights in court.
Additionally, Falana reiterated that the Court of Appeal had clarified that the Federal High Court does not have jurisdiction over chieftaincy matters. He criticized some lawyers for misleading their clients and causing unnecessary confusion, urging the NBA to address such issues.
Falana stressed that there can only be one Emir in Kano, similar to how there cannot be two speakers in Rivers. He called for an end to the confusion surrounding the matter.
“As lawyers, when we gather, we must speak certain truths,” Falana said. “Your Majesty, we congratulate you on your victory in the Court of Appeal.”
He continued, “Your opponents may seek to go to the Supreme Court, but as far as the law is concerned, it is settled. This is where the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) must step in. Where the law is settled, the traditional institution is not a matter of fundamental rights. As a traditional ruler, you cannot claim to enforce fundamental rights in court.
“Your Majesty, whether they go to the Supreme Court or elsewhere, you have come to stay. There can only be one Emir in Kano. We cannot have two Emirs in Kano, just as we cannot have two speakers in Rivers. This confusion must end.”