Federal Government has responded to the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, on Thursday, emphasising that his validation is not necessary for the reforms initiated by President Bola Tinubu.
Information Minister Mohammed Idris expressed disappointment that Sanusi, who previously supported the removal of the petrol subsidy and the unification of foreign exchange rates, is now criticizing these policies, suggesting a shift in his allegiance.
During a Memorial Lecture for Chief Gani Fawehinmi in Lagos on Wednesday, Sanusi, the former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), indicated that he would not assist the Tinubu administration in addressing the nation’s economic challenges.
“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,” Emir Sanusi said.
“I choose not to help this government. You see, they are my friends. If they fail to act like friends, I will not act like one,” he noted.
In his response, the Information Minister found it surprising that a figure of Sanusi’s stature would publicly acknowledge refraining from speaking the truth due to personal interests tied to alleged adversities.
Mohammed said, “His Highness, given his background in economics, has a unique responsibility to contribute constructively rather than undermine reforms aimed at collective progress because he feels estranged from his ‘friends’ in government.
“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.
“We urge the Emir to rise above personal interests and partisan undertones and prioritize 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.”
