Nigeria Kano Emirates: Deputy Governor Backtracks on Accusation Against NSA Ribadu

Kano's Deputy Governor Aminu Gwarzo has retracted his earlier allegation that National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu was involved in a plot to reinstate the deposed Emir of Kano. Gwarzo acknowledged his mistake and expressed regret, citing Ribadu's integrity and pedigree.

In a surprising turn of events, Kano's Deputy Governor Aminu Gwarzo has retracted his allegation that National Security Adviser (NSA) Nuhu Ribadu was involved in a plot to forcibly reinstate the deposed Emir of Kano, Aminu Bayero. Gwarzo's retraction comes after Ribadu threatened legal action over the defamatory claim.

Speaking to journalists at the Government House in Kano on Monday, Gwarzo expressed regret for the embarrassment caused to Ribadu and his office. "We were shocked to hear the NSA's name mentioned in the plot to impose a deposed Emir in Kano, knowing his integrity and pedigree. We are human and can err at any time," Gwarzo said.

The deputy governor acknowledged that he was misled into making the allegation initially and extended an apology. "On behalf of myself and the Governor of Kano State, I assure the NSA of our continued support and cooperation in discharging his duties," he added.

Gwarzo's retraction comes after Ribadu's legal team demanded an apology and threatened to sue the deputy governor for defamation. In a letter from his lawyers, Aliyu and Musa Chambers, Ribadu emphasized that he had never been accused of any wrongdoing and was inundated with calls over the "false accusation."

The controversy erupted last week when Gwarzo, in a video interview, accused Ribadu of arranging the return of the deposed 15th Emir of Kano, Aminu Bayero, to the state. Gwarzo had claimed that Ribadu had provided two jets to facilitate Bayero's travel to Kano and his subsequent arrival at the palace.

However, Ribadu swiftly denied the allegations through his spokesperson on Saturday, setting the stage for the legal confrontation.

The emirship dispute in Kano has been ongoing since the controversial dethronement of Emir Sanusi Lamido Sanusi in 2020, which sparked protests and criticism from civil society groups accusing the state government of undermining traditional institutions.


With Gwarzo's retraction and apology, the focus now shifts to the call for a thorough investigation into the happenings in Kano, as urged by the deputy governor himself. President Bola Tinubu's administration will be expected to address the matter and ensure peace and stability in the region.