The genuine cause for my choice not to fire former CBN governor, Emefiele – Buhari

Former President Muhammadu Buhari has provided an explanation as to why he chose not to dismiss Godwin Emefiele, the former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, despite rumors of Emefiele’s presidential ambitions in the 2023 election.

Buhari clarified that he refrained from taking action against Emefiele due to the lack of concrete evidence supporting his alleged pursuit of the presidency.

This revelation was made in Buhari’s memoir titled ‘Working with Buhari: Reflections of a Special Adviser, Media and Publicity (2015 – 2023)’, which was authored by his former Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, and presented in Abuja on Tuesday.

According to the memoir, Buhari stated, “When he (Emefiele) was linked to the 2023 presidential campaign, I did not question him because he had not disclosed his involvement to anyone. Otherwise, I would have relieved him of his duties and publicly explained the reasons behind it.”

Buhari emphasized that unless there was substantial evidence against Emefiele, it would be unfair and unjust to remove him based solely on hearsay.

The former president further added, “If you unjustly punish a person, it can haunt them for the rest of their life. Therefore, if punishment is to be administered, it must be supported by evidence, and one should also bear in mind that they themselves will not remain in power forever. One day, they will step down.”

“I am highly conscious of the morale of those who serve alongside me. I also expect that whoever succeeds me will treat me fairly. I have family and friends who would be affected by such actions. Fairness is something I am deeply committed to,” Buhari concluded.

During the book unveiling ceremony, President Bola Tinubu emphasized that his predecessor, Buhari, has refrained from interfering in his administration since leaving government in 2023.

Version 1: Following the transition of power, Buhari assured Tinubu that he would maintain a distance in Daura but would be available if needed, promising not to intrude or interfere with his activities.

Version 2: Tinubu highlighted that Buhari made it clear that he would be residing in Daura after handing over, assuring Tinubu that he would not meddle or exert control over his administration.

Version 3: Tinubu acknowledged Buhari’s commitment to non-interference, recalling that after stepping down, Buhari assured him that he would not impose his influence or closely monitor his actions.