The Deputy Governor of Kano State, Aminu Abdulsalam, has publicly apologized to the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, retracting his earlier claim that Ribadu facilitated the return of the dethroned Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado Bayero.
At a press conference held late Sunday at the Government House in Kano, Abdulsalam acknowledged that further information had exonerated Ribadu from the allegation of smuggling in the deposed emir.
Previously, Abdulsalam had asserted that Ribadu provided two aircraft for the emir’s return to Kano.
However, the office of the National Security Adviser swiftly denied the allegation, leading Ribadu to seek legal redress against the deputy governor for defamation of character.
Now, after deeper investigation, Abdulsalam clarified that the NSA was not involved in the emir’s return.
He said,
“The office of the National Security Adviser NSA has refuted the allegations and distanced themselves from what we have alleged, I have seen (their refutal) in (at least) three mediums and I also saw the publication about going to court on what we have alleged on the involvement of his office or his person.
“I have to acknowledge that we have been deeply misled into believing that the NSA was behind the happenings along this line, the charter of the two flights that smuggled in the deposed Emir of Kano and the security cover that escorted him to the Nassarawa House.
“We investigated deep and harder and we came to understand that and accept the statement of the National Security Adviser that he was not involved. Knowing his integrity and devotion to duty, if he (Mr Ribadu) has hand in the return of the deposed Emir, I believe he will be straightforward and say yes.
“We have further information (on the matter). There is nothing we can say than to apologise to the person and the office on behalf of the governor and government of Kano State for any embarrassment or inconvenience that might cause him.
“It’s very clear, it’s politics, and we understood the dynamics and we are still pursuing it to the logical conclusion.
“I will like to assure the National Security Adviser that the Kano State Government will continue to work and cooperate with him in giving all the necessary support for him to discharge his duties as National Security Adviser”.
