There was a mild drama in Abuja on Thursday as the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadau, addressed Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero as the Emir of Kano.
Both Bayero and Alhaji Muhammadu Sanusi are laying claim to the revered stool of the Emir of Kano.
In March 2020, former Governor Abdullahi Ganduje had dethroned Sanusi and named Bayero Emir.
However, four years after, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf sacked Bayero and reinstated Sanusi.
Bayero’s whose sack was announced when he was out of the state, had returned to Kano and moved into the mini palace at Nasarawa, where he has been holding court.
Angered by his action, Yusuf had ordered the immediate arrest of the monarch, but rather than comply, security was beefed up at the mini palace, fueling the speculation that Bayero had federal backing.
Aminu Gwarzo, Deputy Governor of Kano, had alleged that Ribadu facilitated the return of Bayero by providing him with two private jets.
But Ribadu had denied the allegation while threatening to sue Gwarzo.
In a letter, Aliyu & Musa Chambers, counsel to Ribadu, demanded an apology from the deputy governor who later recanted.
The battle for the control of the emirate later shifted to the courts as both camps filed different suits to challenge on another.
However at the 1st Annual International Lecture organised by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) with the theme, “Insecurity in the Sahel (2008-2024)” in Abuja on Thursday, Ribadu addressed Bayero as the Emir of Kano.
While recognizing dignitaries at the event, Ribadu had said, “Of course the Emir of Kano, Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero.”
His comment elicited a thunderous applause in the hall.
A social media user and supporter of the Emir, Rabiu Uba Danzainab posted the 33 seconds video on his X page (rabiuuba4) with the caption, “Ribadu addressed our Emir as the Legitimate Emir of Kano.”
But another user, Ahmed Idris, said, “APC Emir. He better starts a new jihad.”
Another X User, @StudentYahaya, said, “Only the court of a competent jurisdiction can do so, not Ribadu.”
“The legitimate emir is not seated on the high table.. is that?” asked another user @mdhadjii. (Daily Trust)
