The Supreme Court of Nigeria has adjourned proceedings in the protracted Kano Emirate dispute to April 19, 2027.

The case centres on the rivalry between the 15th Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado Bayero, and the reinstated 16th Emir, Muhammadu Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, over the Kano Emirate stool.

At its first hearing on Monday, the apex court heard preliminary arguments from parties involved before fixing the next date for 2027.

The suit was instituted by Aminu Babba Dan Agundi, who is challenging the Kano State Government and the State House of Assembly over the repeal of the 2019 Kano Emirates Law. The legal action also questions the dissolution of the five emirates created during the administration of former governor Abdullahi Ganduje and the reinstatement of Sanusi, who was dethroned in 2020.

Speaking to journalists after the court session, Dan Agundi expressed satisfaction with the proceedings so far, noting confidence in the judiciary’s impartiality. However, he hinted that an application may be filed to seek a review of the adjournment timeline after consultations with legal advisers and stakeholders.

“We are satisfied with the position of the Supreme Court, and we believe its actions are in line with the law. However, after reviewing the outcome, we may consider applying for the adjustment of the timeline given,” he said.

The dispute follows the 2024 decision by Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, who signed a new Emirate Council Law that removed the five emirs appointed under Ganduje’s administration and reinstated Sanusi as Emir of Kano. The affected emirs were also directed to vacate their palaces and official residences within two days.

The matter remains one of the most significant traditional institution disputes in recent Nigerian history, with legal and political implications continuing to unfold.