Renowned human rights lawyer, Femi Falana, SAN, has affirmed that Kano State can have only one Emir, following the recent Court of Appeal ruling. Speaking at the 21st Memorial Lecture of Chief Gani Fawehinmi in Lagos, Falana congratulated the 16th Emir of Kano on his legal victory, asserting that his reign is secured despite ongoing opposition.
“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.”
The senior advocate highlighted that the Federal High Court lacks jurisdiction over chieftaincy matters, a position clarified by the appellate court’s ruling. He criticized legal practitioners who, according to him, have been misleading their clients and perpetuating confusion around the matter.
“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,” he explained.
Falana urged the NBA to call errant lawyers to order to prevent unnecessary legal battles and disruptions.
“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,” Falana said.
