Embattled Kano Cleric, Abduljabar Kabara, has sued Governor Abdullah Ganduje at the Federal High Court over infringement on his fundamental right to life, conscience and religion.
Kabara is also seeking an order of perpetual injunction restraining Ganduje, the Commissioner of Police in Kano and other state agents from oppressing, harassing and imposing any inhibition on him henceforth.
Last week, Kano State Government barred the Islamic cleric from preaching and promoting an ideology the government considered to be provocative, inciting and inimical to peace and security.
Kabara, who is challenging the action of the government in a motion on notice filed before the court in Kano, insisted that his right to freedom of expression, movement and peaceful assembly were being violated.
The cleric’s counsel, Rabiu Abdullah, urged the court to stop any act of intimidation, harassment, the threat of arrest and detention against the clergyman, saying it was unlawful.
Presiding Judge, Justice Lewis Allagoa, directed the plaintiff to ensure all parties were duly served.
He adjourned the hearing on the substantive application to February 18.
Addressing journalists after the court hearing, Abdullahi, declared that continuous detention and occupation of his residence by security agents was a clear breach of his fundamental right.
He insisted the action of the state government was being challenged on the ground that Kabara is a Nigerian citizen and entitled to enjoy fundamental rights as guaranteed by the constitution.
He accused the Kano State Executive Council of arrogating the power of the judge, prosecuting Kabara without a fair hearing.