The Futility of Recalling a Case Already Decided

In Defense of Hon. Alhassan Ado Doguwa, OON, Sardaunan Kasar Hausa Maituta

By  Yusuf Ibrahim  Lamido , Kano

In recent days, a self-styled group of lawyers, parading themselves as “Kano indigenes,” has attempted to resuscitate a matter that has long been laid to rest by a court of competent jurisdiction—the criminal allegation once leveled against the distinguished lawmaker, Hon. Alhassan Ado Doguwa, OON, Sardaunan Kasar Hausa Maituta, Member Representing Doguwa/Tudun-Wada Federal Constituency.

Their petition to the Kano State Attorney General, urging him to “recall” or “reopen” the case, is not only mischievous but also legally baseless, unconstitutional, and a clear attempt to ridicule the integrity of Nigeria’s judicial system.

Finality of Court Judgments

The Nigerian Constitution is crystal clear under Section 36(9): no person who has been tried by a court of competent jurisdiction and either convicted or acquitted shall again be tried for that offence. This sacred principle—known as double jeopardy—is a cornerstone of our legal system. Once the court discharged and acquitted Hon. Doguwa, the matter was concluded. No amount of petitions, noise, or cheap publicity can change that fact.

Misuse of Legal Profession

The so-called group of “concerned lawyers” knows very well that neither the Kano State Attorney General nor any other authority can recall a case after judgment. Only an appeal can challenge a court’s verdict—and in this case, the prosecution neither appealed nor presented fresh evidence of any new crime. It is therefore shameful for legal practitioners, who should be custodians of the law, to reduce themselves to political pawns.

Abuse of Process and Political Witch-Hunt

Let us call this what it is: a desperate attempt to tarnish the reputation of a respected leader whose service to his people and the nation is unquestionable. Hon. Doguwa has continued to represent Doguwa/Tudun-Wada Federal Constituency with vigor, distinction, and unshakable commitment. To drag his name back into a case already resolved by the courts is nothing but a political witch-hunt designed to distract him from his legislative responsibilities.

The Attorney General’s Powers Are Not for Misuse

Section 174 of the Constitution gives the Attorney General the power to initiate, continue, or discontinue proceedings. However, this power does not extend to recalling cases already decided. To do so would amount to usurping the judiciary’s role and violating the principle of separation of powers. The Kano State Attorney General, therefore, has no legal standing to entertain this frivolous petition.

Conclusion

Hon. Alhassan Ado Doguwa, OON, has been vindicated by the law. Any attempt to reopen his case is not only unconstitutional but also an insult to the Nigerian judiciary. The so-called group of Kano lawyers should bury their mischief and allow the Sardaunan Kasar Hausa to continue his legislative duties in peace. Nigeria is a nation governed by laws, not by the whims of desperate political actors.

Justice has been served, and the matter is closed.

Yusuf  Ibrahim Lamido  Writes  from Kano .