The Sokoto State High Court has issued an order restraining Governor Ahmed Aliyu from sacking two of the 15 district heads recently removed from their positions.
The decision is part of the ongoing controversy surrounding the proposed traditional institution law in Sokoto State.
The court order was sought by Buhari Tambuwal and Abubakar Kassim, the district heads of Tambuwal and Kebbe respectively. Both leaders were among those removed by the Sokoto State Government on allegations of insubordination and aiding insecurity in the state.
Presiding Judge, Justice Kabiru Ahmed, directed the governor, his Attorney General, and the Sokoto Sultanate Council to revert to the status quo pending the determination of the suit filed by the complainants, who were represented by Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Ibrahim Abdullahi.
Justice Ahmed issued two orders instructing the defendants, their agents, servants, privies, or assigns, or any person acting on their behalf, to “maintain status quo and/or stay all actions and/or further actions in connection with all matters dealing with and/or appertaining to the removal and/or dethronement of district heads in Sokoto State.”
The judge emphasized that all actions, particularly those concerning the district heads of Kebbe and Tambuwal, should be stayed pending the hearing and determination of the motion for an interlocutory injunction filed before the court.
The controversy has also drawn the attention of the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC), which alleged a plot by the state government to dethrone the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III.
In response, Vice President Kashim Shettima emphasized the importance of safeguarding the Sultan’s throne, describing it as an institution that must be jealously guarded and protected.
Additionally, the Sokoto State government has denied any plans to depose the Sultan, countering speculations by some individuals and groups.