In a landmark ruling, the Federal High Court in Kaduna has declined jurisdiction in a case brought by former Kaduna State Governor Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, seeking to set aside an Adhoc Committee report by the Kaduna State House of Assembly. Justice R.M. Aikawa, in two separate rulings, found that El-Rufai failed to provide sufficient grounds to set aside the court’s proceedings or to recuse the presiding judge. Instead of dismissing the suit, the court exercised its authority under Section 22(2) of the Federal High Court Act and transferred the case to the Kaduna State High Court for determination.
Legal experts hailed the decision as a victory for the rule of law, emphasizing that it reinforces the judiciary’s independence and commitment to justice. Notable counsels involved included Femi Falana, SAN, and Sani Katu, SAN, for the 1st respondent, and Sule Shuaibu, SAN, Attorney General of Kaduna State, for the 2nd respondent.
