By Amb. Abbas Abdullahi Yakasai cissp ipma
It is deeply unfortunate and disappointing to witness a group referred to as Northern Women Lawyers Congress, an association that ordinarily by the name, would be expected to fight for justice, fairness, and the rule of law, stooping so low and issuing a politically motivated statement aimed at vilifying a respected traditional leader, Mallam Muhammadu Sanusi, the Emir of Kano
The Congress, led by one Barrister Nafisa Abba, has taken upon itself to blindly applaud the actions of the Nigeria Police Force without critically examining the circumstances surrounding their invitation to Mallam Mohammadu Sanusi, II
The emotional and biased tone of their statement suggests that, it was far from professional legal opinion, but a desperate attempt to align with certain political interests, for personal gains.
The public is watching, and it’s becoming increasingly clear that, someone with a vested agenda is hiding behind the name of this so-called Congress.
We wish to remind the leader of the group, by name Barrister Nafisa and her colleagues, that leadership be it traditional or democratic, requires balance, wisdom, and a sincere focus on progress. At a time when Kano and Nigeria are grappling with real, tangible crises, poverty, insecurity, out-of-school children, drug abuse, and youth unemployment. The Congress has disgracefully chosen to make a spectacle out of a cultural durbar and the invitation of Emir of Kano (Mallam Mohammadu Sanusi).
While the group claim to be defenders of justice, where were they when almost 16 innocent lives were lost in the tragic incident in Edo State just recently, who were from Kano, the recent killings of people in Plateau and Benue States respectively. What bold statement had the group released to demand justice for those Nigerians? What proactive steps have they taken to ensure that the affected families are heard or that the perpetrators are held accountable?
Their silence on real national tragedies speaks louder than their politically motivated attack on Sanusi Lamido Sunusi, and a clear case of self serving interest. If the Congress is truly committed to justice, we urge them to channel their energy towards issues that matter, holding institutions accountable, advocating for victims, and ensuring that Nigeria’s justice system works for all, not just for those with political influence.
Moreover, labeling civil society organisations (CSOs) as “creations of the Emir” is not only irresponsible but also undermines the important work done by independent voices who constantly risk their lives and reputations to speak truth to power. The CSOs in question have every right to question the legality and circumstances and intentions surrounding the police’s actions, just as citizens have the right to demand fairness and due process.
It is also disturbing that, the so called Congress seems to suggest that traditional leaders no longer deserve respect or basic civil rights. Emir Sanusi’s history of speaking up against societal decay, corruption, and injustice is well known, and it is one of the reasons why he remains a target for politically self serving individuals and their cronies. Whether one agrees with him or not, his right to dignity, fairness, and protection under the law must be respected and upheld.
We urge the Congress to return to the path of justice and objectivity, and to stop allowing themselves to be used as pawns in political chess games. If truly they care for Kano and Nigeria, let them rise above petty distractions and contribute meaningfully to the progress of our people.
Enough of the distractions. Let us focus on building a better Kano, and a greater Nigeria.
