National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, stirred public debate on Thursday when he referred to Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero as the Emir of Kano during an event in Abuja.
The moment occurred at the 1st Annual International Lecture organized by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), centered on the theme: “Insecurity in the Sahel (2008-2024).”
The statement quickly caught attention, as Bayero’s position as Emir has been the subject of ongoing controversy. Back in 2020, Bayero was appointed as Emir of Kano by former Governor Abdullahi Ganduje, after the deposition of Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, a former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).
However, in 2024, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf reversed Ganduje’s decision, reinstating Sanusi as the Emir and removing Bayero. Bayero, who was out of state when the announcement was made, returned to Kano and took up residence in the Nasarawa mini palace, where he continued to conduct his court affairs. Speculation soon arose that Bayero had federal backing, following the tightening of security around his residence.
The political drama intensified when Governor Yusuf called for Bayero’s arrest, but security forces did not comply. In response, Kano’s Deputy Governor, Aminu Gwarzo, accused Ribadu of aiding Bayero’s return by providing him with two private jets. Ribadu denied the claims and, through his legal representatives at Aliyu & Musa Chambers, demanded an apology from Gwarzo, which was later issued.
With both Bayero and Sanusi filing lawsuits against each other, the matter is now being handled in court. However, Ribadu’s public acknowledgment of Bayero as the Emir of Kano reignited discussions about the legitimacy of the emirate.
During the event in Abuja, Ribadu addressed the audience, stating, “Of course, the Emir of Kano, Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero,” a remark that was met with applause. A video clip of the moment has since gone viral on social media, sparking various reactions and fueling further debate on the matter.
Watch the video below;
https://x.com/rabiuuba4/status/1841807690302923134?t=7v1eHxa0OKQfszJo21Q2VQ&s=19
As the legal and political tussle continues, the question of Kano’s rightful Emir remains at the forefront of public discourse.
