Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano State yesterday in Abuja met with the National Security Adviser (NSA), Malam Nuhu Ribadu, over the lingering Emir’s stool crisis.
It was learnt that Yusuf’s visit to Ribadu was meant to resolve the crisis and restore peace in the state.
The meeting, which lasted over an hour, was fruitful, according to the governor in a post on his personal X (formerly twitter) handle after leaving the office of the NSA.
He said: “His (Ribadu’s) role is critical for the harmonious existence of our nation. So, I briefed him on the recent developments in Kano.
“I had a fruitful engagement with the National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu, this afternoon in Abuja.”
Kano State Deputy Governor Aminu Gwarzo had accused Ribadu of alleged complicity in the return of dethroned Emir Aminu Bayero to the state, but has since retracted the same and apologised.
A statement by the governor’s Media and Publicity Director Sanusi Bature explained that the discussion between Yusuf and Ribadu in Abuja also touched on that issue.
Bature said: “The meeting (between Yusuf and Ribadu) was prompted by the recent happenings in Kano, following the dissolution of five emirates by the Kano State House of Assembly through the repeal of the State Emirate Law, and the subsequent restoration of Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II by the governor.
“The two political leaders deliberated on various matters relating to state and national developments as well as the peaceful coexistence of citizens during their discussions in Abuja.
“It is significant to mention that the NSA had been accused of involvement in the Kano crisis for allowing a substantial military presence to protect the removed Emir Aminu Ado Bayero, a position swiftly discredited by the Office of the National Security Adviser.
“Before their meeting today (Thursday), Kano State Deputy Governor Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo had apologised to the NSA for his implication in the Kano crisis, attributing the error to flawed intelligence.
“Recognising the respected professional background and integrity of the NSA throughout his time as an officer and anti-corruption campaigner, the state deemed it necessary to retract the allegation and offer a sincere apology.
“In harmony with these events, the governor’s meeting with the NSA coincided with Emir of Kano Muhammadu Sanusi II’s six-day stay at the Kano palace, where a significant majority of district heads and kingmakers already pledged their allegiance and loyalty to the newly consolidated Kano Emirate under the leadership of the 16th Emir.”