FG Declares Sanusi’s Input Unnecessary for Validating Tinubu’s Reforms

The Federal Government asserts that Tinubu’s reform initiatives do not require validation from former Emir Sanusi, emphasizing confidence in the administration’s policies.

On Thursday, the Federal Government responded to Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II of Kano by stating that his endorsement is not necessary for validating President Bola Tinubu’s reforms.

Information Minister Mohammed Idris expressed disappointment in a statement, noting that Sanusi, who once praised the removal of petrol subsidies and the unification of forex rates, is now subtly condemning these policies due to a change in loyalty.

On Wednesday, during the Chief Gani Fawehinmi Memorial Lecture in Lagos, Sanusi, a former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), stated that he would not be assisting the Tinubu administration with addressing the country’s economic challenges.

Sanusi ascended to the position of Emir of Kano last year, four years after being removed by the Abdullahi Ganduje administration. His reinstatement under new Kano Governor Abba Yusuf is now facing a legal challenge from Aminu Ado Bayero, who was deposed as the 15th Emir. There are allegations that the Federal Government supports Bayero; however, these claims have been denied by government officials.

A combination of Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II (left) and Emir Ado Bayero (right).

In reply to the Emir, the information minister expressed amusement that a traditional leader of Sanusi’s stature would openly confess to avoiding speaking the truth due to personal interests based on perceived hostility.

Mohammed stated that His Highness, with his expertise in economics, holds a special responsibility to make positive contributions to reforms aimed at collective progress. This comes despite any feelings of alienation from his “friends” within the government, which should not lead him to undermine these efforts.

As Sanusi himself recognized, the temporary pains currently resulting from these inevitable decisions are primarily a “necessary consequence of decades of irresponsible economic management.”

We encourage the Emir to set aside personal interests and partisan biases, focusing instead on prioritizing the greater good of Nigerians.

To rebuild Nigeria, we need unity, focus, and sacrifice from all stakeholders. As a government, we call on respected leaders to avoid language that erodes public trust. They have a responsibility to promote our shared vision of a thriving Nigeria. In this crucial period for the country, collaboration is essential; distractions are not what we need.