The dethroned Emir of Kano, Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, finally gained his freedom after a Federal High Court in Abuja announced his banishment from Kano to Awe in Nasarawa State a violation of fundamental human rights, on Tuesday.
Previously, Mr Sanusi was dethroned on March 9, 2020, due to insubordination. He did not challenge his dethronement, yet he demanded an interim order of the court for a release from what he referred to as “unlawful detention/confinement”, at a private home until March 13.
Justice Anwuli Chikere delivered the issue that the manner Sanusi was forcefully removed from the palace was a vicious violation of his rights, especially of his personal liberty and freedom of movement.
According to the Emirate Council Law 2019 under which the Kano State is governed and acted upon, Sanusi, a citizen of Nigeria who has not committed any form of offence, was entitled to the freedom to reside in any part of the country. As the law is absolute, any law that does not follow the scribe will be deemed null and void.
Some argued the decision made by the Federal High Court in Abuja lacked jurisdiction, for Sanusi’s initial alleged violation took place in Kano, not Abuja. However, the argument was dismissed on Tuesday by the court.
Apart from freedom, the judge also awarded Mr Sanusi with N10 million compensation and ordered the Kano State Government, the Inspector General of Police, and the Department of State Services to release a public apology.
