The legal team of the dethroned Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, led by a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, SAN, AB Muhmud has given the Nigeria Police, the entire security agents and the Nigeria Attorney General of the Federation, an ultimatum to immediately release the deposed emir and allow him to reunite with his family.
AB Muhmud who spoke to journalists in Kano on Tuesday, March 10, 2020, said they have received instructions from Sanusi through his chief of staff to challenge the legality of the Emir’s detention and banishment.
“We are of the firm view that this action is illegal and unconstitutional. Section 35 of our constitution guarantees every citizen the right to personal liberty, and the basis for the denial of personal liberty is set out clearly in this section of the constitution and none applies to the case of the Emir Sanusi”, he added.
AB Muhmud reminded that the archaic practice of the banishment of deposed Emirs, a colonial practice has no basis under Nigerian law or the constitution.
” We are totally perplexed at the resort to this practice in present-day Nigeria by its political leaders, this is because the illegality of this practice was pronounced by the Nigeria Court of Appeal in Attorney General Kebbi State Vs HRH Alhaji All Mustapha Jakolo and others 2013 LPELR 22349/CA where the Court pronounced it as illegal and unconstitutional and gross violation of the right of the Emir.
Therefore, we call on the authorities and in particular, Inspector General of Police, Director General DSS and Attorney General to ensure the immediate release of HH Muhammadu Sanusi II so that he can be reunited with his families.
“We are concerned about his personal safety and security. All well-meaning Nigerians and the International Community should bring their influence to bear in this case to ensure he is released.
”The legal team of HH Muhammadu Sanusi II is working both in Kano and Abuja and unless he is released immediately, we will take appropriate legal actio,” they warned.
