The Forum of Chiefs in Nigeria has urged Sanusi Lamido Sanusi to comply with the Federal High Court order and immediately vacate the Kano Emir’s Palace.
In their statement, the Forum emphasized the finality and binding nature of the court’s decision, delivered on Tuesday, highlighting the necessity of prioritizing peace and stability in Kano State.
The statement, signed by President Chief Ameh Adaji and Secretary General Chief Danladi Etsu, stressed that no king can rule without the support of the people and that unlawfully occupying a palace is unacceptable globally.
The Forum mentioned that a forceful eviction by security agents would be a last resort and encouraged Sanusi to avoid any actions that might cause embarrassment, violence, or unrest.
As a former custodian of culture and tradition, the chiefs urged Sanusi to respect the law and vacate the palace, leading by example.
“The Forum of Chiefs in Nigeria, representing lower grade traditional rulers, calls on Sanusi Lamido Sanusi to vacate the palace immediately as ordered by the Federal High Court.
“His continued occupation of the palace, despite the court order, is a violation of the law and a disrespect to the ancient throne of Kano.
“As a former royal father, Sanusi should place the peace of the state above personal interests and avoid being used by politicians with ulterior motives.
“Being a Muslim, Sanusi should acknowledge that power is given and taken by God. He has had his time as Emir and should not attempt to reclaim the position through unlawful means.
“He should accept the divine will, as the law is an interpretation of the people’s will. His actions have tarnished the reputation of the Kano Emirship. For the sake of his family’s legacy and Kano’s rich heritage, he must leave the palace peacefully.
“We hope Sanusi will heed wise counsel and vacate the palace as per the court order to prevent potential chaos in Kano. The residents are already enduring significant hardships, and further disturbances would be cruel.
“We urge security agencies to enforce the court’s order if Sanusi continues to defy it. Unlawfully occupying the palace against the rule of law and the people’s will is unacceptable. The government must act swiftly to ensure peace and stability in Kano State.
“We appeal to the peace-loving citizens of Kano to remain law-abiding despite provocations. All efforts must be made to prevent a breakdown of order in Kano, the North’s commercial hub and Nigeria’s most populous state,” the Forum stated.
