SALLAH DURBAR: Let Kano breathe, Odinkalu warns of potential crisis over planned court ruling on festival
By KEMI KASUMU
Renowned human rights advocate and legal expert, Chidi Odinkalu, has sounded the alarm over a forthcoming ruling by the Court of Appeal, which he claims could have far-reaching consequences for the political and legal landscape in Kano State.
Taking to his official X account (@ChidiOdinkalu), Odinkalu revealed that credible sources within the judiciary have informed him of a plan to issue an injunction next Tuesday.
This ruling, he alleges, would mandate the controversial Durbar festival proposed by the Chancellor of the University of Calabar (Unical) to proceed, while barring Kano State authorities from intervening.
Odinkalu expressed grave concerns over the potential fallout from such a decision, warning that it could destabilize the state.
According to the rights advocate, this development follows a contentious ruling last week in which a panel of junior justices at the Court of Appeal overturned an earlier decision in favor of a key figure in the ongoing legal battle.
He pointed out that one of the justices on the panel is the spouse of a party involved in the case, casting doubt on the impartiality of the process.
“This is irregular to the point of being unprecedented,” Odinkalu remarked, questioning the integrity of the judiciary.
He suggested that the latest move appears to be a reward for the individual at the heart of the controversy, further fueling tensions.
Odinkalu also cautioned that the anticipated decision could provoke significant unrest in Kano, a state already grappling with challenges surrounding the embattled Emir Bayero and the recent announcement by former Emir Sanusi II regarding the Sallah celebrations.
As the situation unfolds, Odinkalu urged the public to remain vigilant, noting that updates would soon follow.
His remarks come amid growing attention to the escalating dispute, which has captured national interest and could have serious implications for peace and governance in Kano State.
