The Chief Judge of the Kano State High Court, Justice Dije Abdu Aboki, has set October 10, 2024, as the date for ruling on an interlocutory application. This application seeks to prevent the 15th Emir of Kano, Alhaji Aminu Ado-Bayero, from renovating the Nassarawa mini palace. The Emir has been residing there since his return to Kano following the dissolution of the emirates in May.
The motion was filed by the Kano State Government, the state Attorney General, and the Kano Emirate Council. Their counsel, Rilwanu Umar (SAN), submitted the motion ex parte, dated September 12, 2024. This legal action aims to obtain a court order that would restrain Emir Ado Bayero from proceeding with any renovations to the palace.
During the hearing on Wednesday, Habib Akilu, representing the applicants, informed the court that the defendant was not present. He stated that the substantive suit was ready for hearing, indicating that the case had reached a critical stage. The absence of the defendant raised questions about the proceedings.
Emir Ado Bayero is the sole defendant in this case, which places significant focus on his actions regarding the palace. Akilu urged the court to grant the interlocutory application, which seeks to stop the Emir from making any changes to the mini palace.
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Justice Dije Abdu-Aboki presided over the session and decided to adjourn the matter until October 10. This adjournment will allow the court to consider the interlocutory application and also mention the substantive suit. The judge emphasized the importance of addressing these legal matters promptly.
In a prior ruling on September 13, the court granted an interim order that prevents the defendant, along with his agents and anyone acting on his behalf, from demolishing, renovating, or repairing the Nasarawa mini palace. This order is in place pending the hearing and determination of the ongoing suit.
The court also instructed all parties involved in the case to maintain the status quo regarding the structural and architectural design of the palace. This directive aims to preserve the current state of the property until the legal proceedings are resolved.
The situation surrounding the Nassarawa mini palace has drawn significant public interest, particularly given the historical context of the emirate’s dissolution. The implications of the court’s decisions could have a lasting impact on the relationship between the Emirate Council and the state government.
As the case progresses, many are watching closely for the court’s ruling on October 10. The outcome may set a precedent for similar disputes involving traditional rulers and government authorities in the region.
Overall, the legal battle over the Nassarawa mini palace highlights the complexities of governance, heritage, and the role of traditional institutions in contemporary Nigerian society. The court’s decisions will be pivotal in shaping the future of the emirate and its properties.
