Editor
The Coalition for Defence of Justice and Rule of Law, a consortium of civil society organizations in Nigeria, has issued a call for Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano State to promptly step down from his position.
This call to action follows Governor Yusuf’s disregard for the recent court ruling that invalidated the reinstatement of Sanusi Lamido as the Emir of Kano.
In a statement released by Comrade Mohammed Bello, the Coalition accused the governor of flagrant disrespect for the rule of law, persistent abuse of authority, and egregious violation of human rights.
Bello emphasized that the recent verdict delivered by Justice Abdullahi Liman of the Federal High Court, Kano, was unmistakably clear and a direct criticism of Governor Yusuf’s actions, which were deemed unlawful and unconstitutional.
Despite this, Governor Yusuf has chosen to defy the court’s decision, opting to perpetuate illegitimate practices and show disrespect towards the judiciary and traditional institutions.
Bello further stated that this blatant disregard for the rule of law unequivocally indicates that Governor Yusuf is unfit to retain his position.
“The Coalition for Defence of Justice and Rule of Law, a collective of civil society groups in Nigeria, urges Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano State to resign from his post immediately,” the statement declared.
“This call stems from the governor’s blatant disregard for the rule of law, his persistent abuse of authority, and his egregious violation of human rights.
“The recent ruling by Justice Abdullahi Liman of the Federal High Court, Kano, unequivocally nullified the reinstatement of Sanusi Lamido as Emir of Kano. This ruling served as a clear reprimand of Governor Yusuf’s actions, which were deemed illicit and unconstitutional.
“Nevertheless, Governor Yusuf has opted to dismiss the court’s decision, persisting in promoting illegal conduct and showing disrespect towards the judiciary and traditional establishments. This blatant disregard for the rule of law unmistakably signifies Governor Yusuf’s unsuitability to remain in office.
“Moreover, Governor Yusuf’s inaugural year in office has been characterized by an unrelenting campaign of intimidation, harassment, and persecution of perceived adversaries, including Emir Ado Bayero. His administration has been marred by a flagrant abuse of authority, demonstrating blatant disregard for human rights and the rule of law.”
Consequently, the Coalition for Defence of Justice and Rule of Law highlighted that the governor has betrayed the trust bestowed upon him by the people of Kano State, and his continued occupancy of the governor’s office serves as a mockery of democratic institutions and poses a threat to the stability of the state.
“In the event of his failure to resign, Governor Yusuf will be held accountable by Nigerians for any ensuing turmoil in Kano,” the Coalition cautioned Governor Yusuf. “We will take over the Kano Government House, the Kano House in Abuja, and other strategic locations to voice our rejection of his prolonged tenure.
“The people of Kano deserve better, and we will ensure that their voices resonate. We implore the honorable citizens of Kano State to remain composed and peaceable amidst this crisis.
“We pledge to vigilantly monitor the state of affairs and undertake all essential measures to guarantee that justice and the rule of law are upheld.”
