Court Grants Interim Injunction Shielding Maryam Abacha American University from External Interference
Kano, Nigeria – A significant legal development has seen the Kano State High Court issue an interim injunction, effectively preventing the Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission (PCACC) and four other entities from meddling in the internal and external affairs of Maryam Abacha American University of Nigeria (AAUN), Kano. The court’s decision aims to safeguard the university’s administrative and academic operations from external disruption.
The order, granted by Justice Sanusi Ado Ma’aji of the Kano Judicial Division, was a response to an ex parte motion filed by the management of the private institution. The legal action was initiated to seek protection from what the university’s leadership described as undue interference.
The respondents named in the suit include the Kano State Government, the Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission (PCACC), the Kano State House of Assembly, the Attorney-General of Kano State, and a group identified as concerned parents of the institution. These parties are now temporarily barred from taking actions that could disrupt the university’s functions.
Key Provisions of the Court Order
The interim injunction, dated December 11, 2025, carries specific directives aimed at preserving the status quo. Justice Ma’aji has explicitly restrained the named respondents, and any individuals or bodies acting under their authority, from:
- Inviting University Officials: The order prohibits the summoning or questioning of any officials from Maryam Abacha American University of Nigeria by the respondents. This aims to prevent undue pressure or intimidation on the university’s leadership and staff.
- Interfering in Administrative and Academic Activities: The injunction strictly forbids any form of interference in the day-to-day administrative functions and academic pursuits of the university. This includes, but is not limited to, decisions regarding curriculum, admissions, faculty appointments, student discipline, and financial management.
The court emphasized that these restrictions are in place pending the full hearing and determination of the substantive suit that has been filed. This means the university will operate without the specified external pressures while the legal process unfolds.
Maintaining the Status Quo
Furthermore, Justice Ma’aji directed all parties involved in the case to maintain the existing state of affairs concerning the relationship between the applicant (Maryam Abacha American University of Nigeria) and the first respondent (Kano State Government). This directive is crucial for preventing any unilateral actions that could prejudice the outcome of the originating summons before the court. The intention is to ensure that no irreversible changes occur that could complicate the resolution of the dispute.
The court also granted the applicant permission to formally serve court processes on the fifth respondent, identified as concerned parents, at their designated office located at No. 224, Sabo Bakin Zuwo, Kano. This procedural step is vital for ensuring all parties are duly notified and have the opportunity to respond to the legal proceedings.
Future Proceedings
The matter has been adjourned to December 29, 2025, for further proceedings. This date will likely see the court consider the arguments from both sides and potentially make further rulings on the matter. The interim order itself was issued under the official seal of the presiding judge and has been formally endorsed by the Principal Registrar of the court, signifying its legal validity and enforceability.
This legal intervention underscores the importance of protecting educational institutions from external disruptions that could compromise their operational integrity and the quality of education they provide. The court’s decision will be closely watched as it proceeds to a full hearing, with implications for how private universities in the region navigate external scrutiny and potential conflicts.
