The Emir of Kano, Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, has openly stated that he will not assist President Bola Tinubu’s administration in explaining or defending its policies, particularly those that have led to widespread hardship among Nigerians.
Speaking at an event on Wednesday, a video of which was shared by News Central on its X handle, the former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) governor made it clear that he would not offer support to the current government in addressing its policy shortcomings.
Gists9ja reports that Sanusi, who has been an outspoken critic of various governments in the past, pointed out that the Tinubu administration lacks individuals with credibility to effectively communicate with the public about the impact of its policies. He suggested that the government should take responsibility for explaining its decisions directly to Nigerians, rather than relying on others to justify or rationalize them.
The Emir acknowledged that Nigeria’s current economic struggles are partly a result of poor economic management over several decades, but he emphasized that the current government must be accountable for its own actions. He expressed his refusal to assist by elaborating on the economic challenges or offering explanations that could potentially benefit the administration.
He stated, “To be honest, I can stand here today and give a few points that are contrary, a few points that explain what we’re going through, how much of it was totally predictable, and maybe avoidable, but I’m not going to do that. I’ve chosen not to speak about the economy or the reforms, or to even explain anything, because if I do, it would help this government, and I don’t want to help the government.”
Sanusi added, “They’re my friends, but if they don’t behave like friends, I don’t behave like a friend. I watch them stew, and they don’t have people with credibility who can come and explain what they’re doing. But I’m not going to help. I started out helping, but I’m not going to help anymore.”
He further remarked that the policies in question were the result of “decades of irresponsible economic management,” acknowledging that while the current suffering is not entirely caused by the present administration, it is, in part, a consequence of past economic mismanagement.
The Emir’s remarks come amid growing public dissatisfaction with the government’s handling of the economy and other key issues. His decision to distance himself from the administration highlights a broader sense of disillusionment and frustration with the current leadership’s approach to governance.
