The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) President, Yakubu Maikyau, OON, SAN, criticized recent court actions in Kano, stating they have severely damaged the profession’s reputation. NBA National Publicity Secretary Akorede Lawal echoed these sentiments, highlighting that the Federal High Court, Kano State High Court, and other courts involved have subjected the legal profession to public ridicule.
Maikyau emphasized the need for urgent scrutiny of the professional conduct of both counsel and judges involved. He called on the heads of the courts to investigate potential abuses and report findings to the National Judicial Council. The NBA also plans to investigate and possibly discipline involved lawyers for any professional misconduct.
The controversy arose from conflicting injunctions issued by the Federal High Court and Kano State High Court regarding the Kano Emirate. These conflicting orders, involving the eviction and protection of Emirs Muhammadu Sanusi II and Aminu Ado Bayero, have caused confusion over authority in the emirate. In response, Chief Justice of Nigeria Olukayode Ariwoola has summoned the Chief Judges of both courts to address and resolve the legal discord.