•• Told Emir to rise above personal interests and partisan undertones.
By Suleiman Ibrahim
In a pointed rebuttal to the Emir of Kano, His Highness Muhammadu Sanusi II, the Federal Government has made it clear that it does not require the monarch’s endorsement of its economic policies, which it describes as essential for Nigeria’s progress. The statement, issued by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, comes in response to the Emir’s recent remarks at the 21st Memorial Lecture of Chief Gani Fawehimi, where he expressed reluctance to offer advice to President Bola Tinubu’s administration on tackling the nation’s economic challenges.
Emir Sanusi, a former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, stated he would refrain from providing insights into the current economic situation, citing a personal decision not to assist the government he once supported. “I can give a few points here about what we are going through and how it was predictable and avoidable. But I am not going to do that,” he remarked, emphasizing his discontent with the government’s approach and signaling a withdrawal of his support.
In reaction, the Federal Government expressed disappointment over the Emir’s comments, framing them as a departure from the constructive dialogue expected from a leader of his stature.
“First, we acknowledge that Sanusi, and indeed any Nigerian, has the inalienable right to express an opinion either in form of commendation or criticism on how the government is being ran. However, we find it amusing that a leader, more so one from an institution that ennobles forthrightness, fairness, and justice would publicly admit to shuffling off saying the truth because of personal interest hinged on imaginary antagonism.
“It is pertinent to state that Nigeria is at a pivotal juncture where bold and decisive actions are necessary to tackle entrenched economic challenges. This administration has implemented transformative reforms not because they are easy, but because they are essential for securing Nigeria’s long-term stability and growth, as Emir Sanusi had consistently advocated.
“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.
“These reforms are already delivering measurable progress. The unification of exchange rates has bolstered investor confidence, which has contributed to increased foreign reserves and strengthened Nigeria’s ability to shield itself from external economic shocks.
“The removal of the fuel subsidy has freed up significant resources, allowing for greater investment in critical sectors such as infrastructure, education, and healthcare. Projections from respected institutions, including the World Bank, show an upward trajectory in Nigeria’s GDP, signalling that our economy is firmly on the path to recovery.
“Additionally, by addressing inefficiencies, the country has reduced its debt service-to-revenue ratio, creating a more sustainable fiscal framework for future generations.”
Part of the statement also read : “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 shift in loyalty. His Highness, given his background in economics, has a unique responsibility to contribute constructively rather than undermine reforms aimed at collective progress because he feel estranged from his “friends” in government.
