The Federal Government of Nigeria has hit back at the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, stating that it does not require his endorsement for President Bola Tinubu’s economic policies.
The reaction came in response to Sanusi’s recent remarks at the 21st Memorial Lecture of Chief Gani Fawehinmi in Lagos, where he declared that he would not offer advice to the Tinubu administration on addressing Nigeria’s economic challenges. The former Central Bank Governor said he had deliberately chosen not to assist the government, arguing that they lacked qualified individuals to communicate their policies effectively.
In a strongly worded statement issued early Thursday by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, the government expressed disappointment at Sanusi’s stance. The minister accused the first-class monarch of allowing personal and political considerations to cloud his judgment, stating that Sanusi’s reluctance to speak out contradicted the principles of fairness and justice associated with traditional institutions.
“It is deeply disappointing that reforms widely recognized as essential by global experts—including by Emir Sanusi II himself—are now being subtly condemned by him because of a shift in loyalty,” the statement read.
Idris reiterated that Tinubu’s economic reforms, including fuel subsidy removal and foreign exchange unification, were necessary to correct years of mismanagement. He added that while the policies may cause short-term hardships, they were already showing positive results, citing increased investor confidence, rising foreign reserves, and economic growth projections from institutions like the World Bank.
The minister urged Sanusi to prioritize national interest over personal grievances and contribute constructively to discussions on Nigeria’s economic recovery rather than “undermine reforms aimed at collective progress.”
Sanusi, known for his outspoken nature, has yet to respond to the government’s statement.
