Kano State Deputy Governor, Aminu Gwarzo, has retracted his earlier statement accusing the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, of interference in the Kano emirate tussle.
Speaking at a press conference held late Sunday, Gwarzo apologized to the NSA, acknowledging that he was misguided in making his initial statement.
“The Office of the National Security Adviser has refuted the allegations and distanced themselves from what we have alleged. I have seen it, he has done it through three media outlets, and today, I have seen the one about going to court,” Gwarzo stated.
“We have to acknowledge that we have been misled into believing that the NSA was behind the happenings along this line.”
Gwarzo went further to express regret, saying, “We apologize to the National Security Adviser, his person and office for any embarrassment and inconveniences this might have caused him.”
“We are human and can err at any time. On my behalf and the Governor of Kano State, I want to assure the NSA of our continued support and cooperation in discharging his duty as the NSA,” he added.
The NSA refuted claims suggesting that Nuhu Ribadu facilitated the return of the deposed Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado Bayero, to the ancient city on Saturday.
This denial contradicts the assertion made by the deputy governor, who accused the NSA of involvement in Ado Bayero’s return.
The deputy governor cited the clarity of the law regarding the coronation process for an emir and emphasized that no one should interfere or impose anyone on the people of Kano.
He further accused Ribadu of using security apparatus to intimidate the state’s populace.
However, the NSA clarified that he did not arrange the aircraft that transported Ado Bayero back to the state and warned of potential defamation charges against the deputy governor.
Ado Bayero’s return to Kano occurred early on Saturday, approximately 48 hours following his dethronement by Governor Abba Kabir, who installed Muhammadu Sanusi II as his successor.