Kano State Deputy Governor, Aminu Gwarzo, has issued an apology to the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, for alleging his involvement in the return of Emir Ado Bayero to Kano.
Gwarzo’s retraction came after Ribadu, through his legal representatives, demanded an apology for the unfounded accusations.
Gwarzo had accused Ribadu of using his office to support former Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje’s alleged efforts to disrupt the peace in Kano by facilitating Emir Ado Bayero’s return.
Grassroots Parrot reported Gwarzo’s claim that Ribadu provided aircraft to transport the former Emir to Kano, with intentions to incite violence and property destruction.
READ ALSO: Emirship Tussle: Ribadu Denies Aiding Return Of Deposed Kano Emir
In response, Ribadu’s lawyers, Aliyu and Musa Chambers, issued a strong denial and demanded an immediate retraction and public apology.
They emphasized that the NSA’s office had no involvement in the local disputes of the Kano Emirate and described Gwarzo’s statements as defamatory and damaging to Ribadu’s reputation.
“Our client has never been accused of any wrongdoing in his illustrious career,” the lawyers stated. “It is inconceivable that our client would misuse his office for local political squabbles.”
The letter from Ribadu’s legal team demanded that Gwarzo retract his statements within 24 hours and issue a public apology in five national newspapers and on popular online platforms. They warned of legal action if the demands were not met.
READ ALSO: Kano Deputy Gov Accuses Ganduje of Smuggle Deposed Emir Bayero into State
In a statement on Monday, Gwarzo retracted his allegations and apologized, acknowledging that the NSA had no role in the events surrounding Emir Bayero’s return.
“The office of the National Security Adviser has refuted the allegations and distanced themselves from what we have alleged,” Gwarzo said. He admitted that he had been misled into believing Ribadu was involved.
“We apologize to the National Security Adviser, his person, and his office for any embarrassment and inconvenience this might have caused him,” Gwarzo added.
READ ALSO: Deposed Emir Bayero Calls for Peace and Justice
“On behalf of myself and the governor of Kano State, I want to assure the NSA of our continued support and cooperation in discharging his duty.”
Gwarzo’s apology marks an attempt to mend relations and clarify the NSA’s non-involvement in Kano Emirate affairs, aiming to restore peace and trust among the parties involved.