By Abdullahi Yusuf
Kano State Government has urged all traditional rulers, religious and community leaders, political actors and members of the public to exercise restraint in their statements and actions.
In a statement signed by Aminu Hussaini Esq.,Special Adviser to the State Governor on Justice/Constitutional Matters, the government also urged them to esure that their statements and actions do not encourage unlawful disobedience, confrontation or any disturbance of public peace.
“The attention of the Office of the Special Adviser to the Executive Governor on Justice and Constitutional Matters has been drawn to a video circulating on social media in which the Sarkin Dawaki Babba expressed views concerning the recent restrictions on Durbar activities and offered his interpretation of the subsisting judicial proceedings on the Kano Emirship.
“The Office considers it important to clarify that while every citizen is entitled to express opinions on matters of public interest, the interpretation, clarification and enforcement of court orders are matters for the courts.
“An individual’s interpretation of a subsisting judicial order cannot, by itself, confer a legal authority to disregard a lawful directive issued by a competent public authority.
“Where any person considers a Government directive to be inconsistent with a court order, the appropriate course is to seek judicial clarification or other appropriate legal relief, rather than declare an intention to disregard the directive or encourage others to do so.
“This distinction is particularly important in the present circumstances. The pending judicial proceedings should be allowed to run their course without being prejudged or converted into a basis for confrontation between citizens and constituted authorities.
“The Office therefore urges all traditional rulers, religious and community leaders, political actors and members of the public to exercise restraint and ensure that their statements and actions do not encourage unlawful disobedience, confrontation or any disturbance of public peace,”Aminu Hussaini said.
According to him,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 Office reaffirmed its commitment to the rule of law, constitutional rights, judicial independence and the peaceful resolution of disputes.
“Kano State Government will not permit any individual or group to turn a legitimate dispute into a challenge to public order.
“Any attempt to mobilise persons to defy lawful directives, obstruct lawful authority or disturb the peace will be dealt with promptly, firmly and strictly in accordance with the law,” the Special Adviser warned.