The Deputy Governor of Kano State, Aminu Abdulsalam, has apologized to the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, for his previous assertion that Mr Ribadu aided the ousted Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado Bayero, in returning to Kano.

Mr Abdulsalam made the apology at a press briefing late Sunday at the Government House, Kano.

The deputy governor had alleged that Mr Ribadu provided two aircraft for the return of Mr Ado Bayero to the city at 4:30 a.m. on Saturday.

“The National Security Adviser provided two jets to bring the dethroned emir to Kano and to escort him to the palace,” the deputy governor had previously stated.

The office of the National Security Adviser promptly refuted the allegation, before Mr Ribadu, through his lawyer, pledged to pursue legal action against the deputy governor for defamation.

Now, the deputy governor stated that further information at his disposal clears Mr Ribadu of the allegation of facilitating the return of the deposed emir.

“The office of the National Security Adviser NSA has denied the allegations and distanced themselves from what we have claimed, I have seen (their denial) in (at least) three sources and I also noted the report about legal action regarding our claims about the involvement of his office or his person.

“I have to admit that we were misled into believing that the NSA was behind the events in this matter, the charter of the two flights that transported the deposed Emir of Kano and the security detail that accompanied him to the Nassarawa House.

“We conducted thorough investigations and we have come to understand and accept the statement of the National Security Adviser that he was not involved. Knowing his integrity and commitment to duty, if he (Mr Ribadu) had any role in the return of the deposed Emir, I believe he would be honest and admit it.

“We have additional information (on the issue). There is nothing more we can say except to apologize to the individual and the office on behalf of the governor and government of Kano State for any inconvenience or embarrassment caused.

“It’s evident, it’s political, and we comprehend the dynamics and we are still pursuing it to its logical conclusion.

“I would like to assure the National Security Adviser that the Kano State Government will continue to collaborate with him and provide all necessary support for him to fulfill his duties as National Security Adviser,” the deputy governor concluded.