Kano Emirate Tussle: Ribadu Threatens to Sue Kano Deputy Gov

The National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, has warned Deputy Governor of Kano State, Comrade Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo, of a potential defamation lawsuit following remarks made by the deputy governor regarding the emirate conflict in Kano.

NIGERIA NEWS 247 reported that  Emir Muhammadu Sanusi and Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero, who was removed from power on Thursday, are both vying for the throne.

Governor Abba Yusuf reinstated Sanusi and instructed the five Emirs impacted by the new Kano Emirates Council Law to transfer their responsibilities to his deputy, who also serves as the Commissioner of Chieftaincy Affairs.

However, despite the compliance of the other Emirs, Ado Bayero chose to return to Kano and seek refuge in a small palace in Nasarawa. Gwarzo alleged that Ribadu played a role in facilitating Ado Bayero’s return.

The ex-Governor, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, appears discontent with the prevailing peace and harmony in Kano and is suspected of using the National Security Adviser’s office to deploy security forces against the wishes of the people.

The National Security Adviser has arranged for two aircraft to transport the former Emir back to Kano. The motive behind these actions remains unclear. Is there an underlying agenda to incite violence and vandalism due to their non-Kano origins?

Ribadu’s spokesperson, Zakari Mijinyawa, refuted the allegations against Ribadu. Through his legal representatives at Aliyu & Musa Chambers, Ribadu demanded an apology from the deputy governor.

Acting on behalf of Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, who currently serves as the National Security Adviser, we were instructed to address this matter.

Our client became aware of a video circulating on various social media platforms in which you were seen giving an interview at Emir’s Palace in Kano on May 25, 2024.

In the video, you falsely accused our client of misusing his position to harm the people of Kano State and damage their property, despite there being no provocation.

Your baseless allegations against our client, suggesting that his office is aligned with a political party and actively contributes to chaos in Kano, are unfounded and clearly aimed at tarnishing his reputation among respectable members of society.

These accusations have unfortunately succeeded in achieving their goal. Throughout his career, our client has maintained an impeccable record and has never been implicated in any misconduct.

It is absurd to even consider the notion that our client would stoop so low as to involve himself in the internal disputes of the Kano Emirate, given his distinguished history of service.

The extensive publicity surrounding your interview has led to significant embarrassment for our client and his family.

Following the release of the interview, our client has been inundated with phone calls from friends and associates expressing disappointment due to the false accusations made by a high-ranking official.

Our client is deeply concerned about these allegations and is requesting that you provide concrete evidence to support your claims. If you are unable to do so, our client insists that you retract your statements within 24 hours.

• “retract the libellous allegation in a similar manner you made it as well as give it wide media circulation; and
• “issue a public apology in five National dailies with wide national coverage and on popular online platforms. Note that if you fail to do so, our client will be compelled to seek redress in a court of law.”