A legal practitioner, Malcom Omirhobo, has said the Emir of Rano, Muhammad Isa Umaru, has no power to ban church activities in homes within the Emirate.

However, he stated that his position does not mean that he's "in support of Christians violating extant Kano State town planning Laws."

The emir banned church activities in residential houses following complaints raised in the form of petition against the activities of churches in his emirate.

Criticizing the emir, lawyer Omirhobo said the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (1999) as amended, guarantees freedom of worship and religion of every Nigerian citizens right to practice their faith freely, without undue interference from the government or traditional authorities.

He said the Nigerian Constitution also guarantees the right of every Nigerian citizen to freedom of assembly and association to hold religious gatherings and meetings

Sharing on X, he said, "Though the Emir of Rano may have some influence and authority within his domain, nevertheless that does not give him the legal power to violate the fundamental rights of other Nigerian citizens, whereas it is only the Kano State building and town planning authority that has the power consider the ban or not .

"In ensuring fairness and equality, it's crucial for the town planning authority to maintain impartiality and prevent the construction of unauthorized mosques and shrines, just as they would for churches or other religious structures. This balanced approach will help preserve the rights of all citizens, regardless of their faith or background."