Heated Legal Battle Over Kano LG Allocation
In a dramatic turn of events at the Federal High Court in Kano State, a suit aiming to halt statutory allocations to the 44 Local Government Councils has hit a roadblock. The absence of defense counsel John Baiyeshea (SAN) has led to the adjournment of the hearing, leaving both sides in legal limbo.
Legal Battle Unfolds
The plaintiffs, Abdullahi Abbas, Aminu Aliyu-Tiga, and the All Progressives Congress (APC), represented by counsel Sunday Olowomoran Esq, filed a motion ex parte on October 28, 2024. Their aim is to prevent the Federal Government, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), and the Accountant-General of the Federation from disbursing funds to the local governments. They argue that the leadership of these councils is not democratically elected as required by the Nigerian Constitution.
During the latest court session, Justice Simon Amobeda disclosed that John Baiyeshea (SAN) was unable to attend due to health reasons, prompting an adjournment to March 4, 2025. Despite objections from various parties, including the Kano State Attorney General represented by Femi Falana (SAN), the decision to postpone the proceedings was made.
Stakeholders Weigh In
Amidst the legal battle, Sadiqu Sammani-Lawan, representing groups seeking to join the suit, emphasized the importance of his clients’ involvement. The National Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), the National Union of Teachers, and health workers have a vested interest in the outcome of this case.
As tensions rise and legal strategies unfold, the future of local government funding in Kano State hangs in the balance. With key players on both sides preparing their arguments, the next court date looms large, promising further twists and turns in this high-stakes legal saga. Will justice prevail, or will the status quo remain unchanged? Only time will tell in this gripping courtroom drama.
