Date: March 20, 2025
In the wake of the recent declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, sources indicate that the All Progressives Congress (APC) may be shifting its focus to Kano State. Insiders, who requested anonymity, suggest that federal forces are now targeting Kano, with plans to leverage the forthcoming Supreme Court judgment concerning the former Emir of Kano, Alhaji Muhammadu Sanusi II, and his predecessor, Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero, to instigate instability that could justify emergency rule.
Background: Rivers State Emergency Declaration
On March 18, 2025, President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, suspending Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and all elected members of the state’s House of Assembly for six months. This decision was attributed to escalating political unrest and security challenges, including pipeline vandalism by militants. The President appointed retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Étè Ibas as the administrator to oversee the state’s affairs during this period.
Attorney General’s Justification
Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, defended the declaration, stating that it was a compromise to prevent the impeachment of Governor Fubara. He highlighted that the governor had taken actions that rendered the state’s House of Assembly non-functional, including the demolition of the assembly building, leading to a breakdown in governance. Fagbemi emphasized that the President’s intervention was necessary to avert a total collapse of law and order in Rivers State. citeturn0search0
Allegations of APC’s Focus on Kano State
According to sources, the APC is allegedly planning to replicate the Rivers State scenario in Kano State. The strategy purportedly involves influencing the upcoming Supreme Court judgment between former Emir Sanusi and incumbent Emir Bayero to create instability. The objective is to exploit potential unrest arising from the court’s decision to justify the declaration of a state of emergency in Kano, thereby consolidating federal control over the state.
Supreme Court Case: Sanusi vs. Bayero
The legal battle between former Emir Sanusi and Emir Bayero has been a contentious issue in Kano. Sanusi’s removal in 2020 by the Kano State government, citing insubordination, led to the appointment of Bayero as the new emir. Sanusi challenged his dethronement, and the case has progressed to the Supreme Court. The impending judgment has heightened tensions in the state, with concerns that the verdict could trigger political and social unrest.
Potential Implications for Kano State
If the alleged plans materialize, Kano could face significant political instability. A state of emergency would entail the suspension of the governor, deputy governor, and state assembly members, effectively placing the state under federal control. Such a move could disrupt governance, affect public services, and lead to economic uncertainties. Moreover, leveraging traditional institutions and legal verdicts to incite instability raises ethical and legal questions about the manipulation of judicial outcomes for political gains.
Reactions from Legal and Civil Society Groups
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has condemned the suspension of elected officials in Rivers State, describing it as unconstitutional and a violation of Nigeria’s federal structure. NBA President, Afam Osigwe (SAN), argued that while the President can declare a state of emergency, he does not have the authority to remove elected governors or lawmakers under this guise. The NBA warned that such actions could set a dangerous precedent, undermining democratic principles and the autonomy of state governments. citeturn0search1
Historical Context: Federal Interventions in State Affairs
Nigeria has a history of federal interventions in state affairs, often justified by security concerns or political crises. However, such interventions have been contentious, with debates about their constitutionality and impact on democracy. The potential targeting of Kano State raises concerns about the balance of power between federal and state governments and the potential erosion of democratic institutions.
Conclusion
The alleged plans to impose a state of emergency in Kano State, following the precedent set in Rivers State, highlight the complex interplay between politics, judiciary decisions, and governance in Nigeria. While maintaining security and order is paramount, it is crucial to uphold constitutional provisions and democratic principles. Manipulating legal outcomes to justify federal interventions undermines the rule of law and sets a perilous precedent for the nation’s democracy. As the situation unfolds, stakeholders must exercise restraint, respect judicial processes, and prioritize the nation’s democratic integrity.
For ongoing updates on this developing story, stay tuned to reputable news outlets and official statements from government authorities.
