The Kano State Government has warned traditional rulers, politicians, religious leaders and community leaders against making statements or taking actions that could encourage people to disobey lawful directives or threaten peace in the state.
The warning was issued in a statement by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Justice and Constitutional Matters, Aminu Hussaini.
The statement followed a video involving Aminu Babba Dan’Agundi, Sarkin Dawaki Babba, in which he spoke about the government’s recent restrictions on Durbar activities and gave his interpretation of the ongoing court cases concerning the Kano Emirship.
Hussaini said people have the right to express their views on issues of public interest.
However, he stressed that courts are responsible for interpreting, clarifying and enforcing their orders.
He said a person’s personal interpretation of a court order does not give them the legal right to ignore a directive issued by a lawful public authority.
According to him, anyone who believes that a government directive conflicts with a court order should approach the court for clarification or seek other legal remedies.
He urged such individuals not to publicly declare their intention to disobey the directive or encourage others to do so.
The government also appealed to all parties involved in the Kano Emirship dispute to allow the courts to complete the ongoing proceedings without assuming what the final outcome would be.
It warned traditional rulers, political actors, religious and community leaders, as well as members of the public, to avoid actions or statements that could lead to confrontation, unlawful disobedience or a breakdown of public order.
“Legitimate disagreement may be expressed; legal grievances should be pursued through the courts and lawful directives remain binding unless and until set aside, suspended or otherwise varied by a competent authority,” the statement said.
The Special Adviser’s office said the state government remains committed to the rule of law, constitutional rights, judicial independence and the peaceful settlement of disputes.
It also warned that the government would not allow anyone or any group to use the ongoing dispute to undermine public order.
The statement added that any attempt to mobilise people to disobey lawful directives, obstruct government authorities or disturb public peace would be dealt with promptly and according to the law.