We don’t need you input – FG
The reinstated Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, said he had restrained himself from offering any economic advice to the present government of President Bola Tinubu.
Sanusi stated this yesterday at the 21st Memorial Lecture of Chief Gani Fawehinmi organised by the Nigerian Bar Association, Ikeja branch.
The Emir who was former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) chaired the event held under the theme ‘Bretton Woods and the African Economies: Can Nigerians Survive Another Structural Adjustment Programme?’
He said he decided to keep his advice to himself because the government had not acted like a friend to him, noting, however that the government had not handled the economy well.
“I have decided not to speak about the economy or the reforms, nor to explain anything regarding them. If I explained, it would only benefit this government, and I don’t want to aid this government.
“They are my friends, but if they don’t act like friends, I won’t act like one either,” he said.
The emir added: “Is everything being done correctly? No. When I’m ready to discuss the economy, I will.”
Sanusi also took a swipe at the government’s image makers, saying they lack the potential to articulate the government’s policies and programmes.
“They don’t even have people with the pedigree to articulate their policies to the public. Let them explain to Nigerians why they are implementing these measures. I started out helping, but I’ve stopped,” he said.
He attributed the current economic struggles partly to years of poor governance. “What we’re experiencing today is, at least in part, the result of decades of irresponsible management. People warned about the consequences of our actions, but those in power ignored them,” he noted.
Responding, the federal government warned Sanusi to keep his opinion to himself.
The minister of information and national orientation, Mr Mohammed Idris, said in a statement on Thursday that the government does not need the emir’s endorsement for the economic policies introduced by the president.
he expressed disappointment that Sanusi was condemning reforms that have been recognised by global experts, including himself, because of a “shift in loyalty”.
“The Federal Government notes the recent remarks by His Highness, Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II, regarding the economic reforms introduced under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, at a public event in Lagos. We note the emir’s acknowledgement of the noble initiatives which, he said, he could explain away but for his decision ‘not to help the government’.
“First, we acknowledge that Sanusi, and indeed any Nigerian, has the inalienable right to express an opinion either in form of commendation or criticism on how the government is being run.
“However, we find it amusing that a leader, more so one from an institution that ennobles forthrightness, fairness, and justice would publicly admit to shuffling off saying the truth because of personal interest hinged on imaginary antagonism.
“It is pertinent to state that Nigeria is at a pivotal juncture where bold and decisive actions are necessary to tackle entrenched economic challenges.
“This administration has implemented transformative reforms not because they are easy, but because they are essential for securing Nigeria’s long-term stability and growth, as Emir Sanusi had consistently advocated.
“The temporary pains currently experienced from these inevitable decisions, as Sanusi himself acknowledged, are a ‘necessary consequence of decades of irresponsible economic management’ more than anything else.
“These reforms are already delivering measurable progress. The unification of exchange rates has bolstered investor confidence, which has contributed to increased foreign reserves and strengthened Nigeria’s ability to shield itself from external economic shocks.
“The removal of the fuel subsidy has freed up significant resources, allowing for greater investment in critical sectors such as infrastructure, education, and healthcare.
“Projections from respected institutions, including the World Bank, show an upward trajectory in Nigeria’s GDP, signalling that our economy is firmly on the path to recovery.
“Additionally, by addressing inefficiencies, the country has reduced its debt service-to-revenue ratio, creating a more sustainable fiscal framework for future generations.
“It is deeply disappointing that reforms widely recognised as essential by global experts—including by Emir Sanusi II himself—are now being subtly condemned by him because of a shift in loyalty,” Idris said.
He added that given Sanusi’s background in economics, he has a unique responsibility to contribute constructively rather than undermine reforms aimed at collective progress because he feels estranged from his “friends” in government.
“We urge the Emir to rise above personal interests and partisan undertones and prioritise the greater good of Nigerians.
“Rebuilding Nigeria requires unity, focus, and sacrifice from all stakeholders. As a government, we urge esteemed leaders to refrain from rhetorics that undermine public trust.
“Instead, they owe it a duty to champion the collective goal of a prosperous Nigeria. This is a critical time for our country, what is needed is collaboration, not unnecessary distractions.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration remains resolute in its mission to lead Nigeria towards economic inclusivity, sustainability, and shared prosperity.
“The challenges we face demand courage and collective effort, not divisive narratives. This administration is open to constructive dialogue with all well-meaning stakeholders while remaining steadfast in putting the interests of Nigerians above all else.
“Let history record this moment as a turning point—when leaders and citizens alike choose to prioritise the nation’s destiny over personal gain. Together, we will deliver on the promise of renewed hope and a better Nigeria for all,” the minister said.
Recall that Sanusi was deposed in 2020 by then governor, Mr Abdullahi Ganduje, who is now the national chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress.
Ganduje banished Sanusi and replaced him with Aminu Ado Bayero.
However, the incumbent governor of the state, Mr Abba Yusuf, who was elected on the platform of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), reinstated Sanusi last year.