Kano Crisis Escalates: NSA Ribadu Threatens Lawsuit Against Deputy Governor Over Defamatory Claims

National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu has threatened to file a defamation lawsuit against Kano State Deputy Governor Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo, following controversial comments linking him to the tense royal leadership dispute in the state.

The escalating emirate crisis, centered around the removal of Emir Aminu Ado Bayero and the reinstatement of Sanusi Lamido Sanusi II, has divided Kano politically and culturally. But the crisis took a legal turn after Gwarzo claimed the NSA was involved in facilitating Bayero’s return to the palace under the protection of federal security forces.

In response, Ribadu issued a strongly worded statement through his legal counsel on Monday, demanding a full retraction of the “baseless and defamatory” comments within 48 hours or face legal consequences.

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“The Deputy Governor’s claims are false, reckless, and intended to mislead the public,” Ribadu’s lawyer said. “Our client had no role in the recent royal developments in Kano.”

Gwarzo had alleged that Ribadu authorized the use of military escorts to smuggle Bayero back into the city in defiance of the new law signed by Governor Abba Yusuf dissolving the five emirates. Gwarzo’s statement added fuel to already-heightened tensions between supporters of both emirs, with violent protests reported in some parts of the state over the weekend.

Political observers believe the unfolding events in Kano are as much about power as they are about tradition. The reinstatement of Sanusi II — once a vocal critic of former Governor Ganduje — is widely seen as a political counter-move by the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP)-led administration.

“This crisis is testing not just the emirate institution but also the balance between state and federal authority,” said Malam Shehu Idris, a constitutional law expert.

While the NSA insists on remaining apolitical in the matter, his name being dragged into Kano’s local affairs has triggered concerns about political overreach and misinformation at the highest levels of governance.

As of Tuesday evening, the Kano State Government had not issued a formal response to Ribadu’s threat. However, insiders say legal teams are preparing a cautious reply amid fears of a possible federal backlash.

With security still tight in the city and tension between royal supporters unresolved, Nigeria watches closely as this unprecedented emirship drama plays out on both traditional and legal battlegrounds.

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