The Emir of Kano, Muhammad Sanusi II, has clarified his remarks on President Bola Tinubu’s ongoing reforms, asserting that his words were misinterpreted and sensationalized by certain quarters.
The clarification follows widespread reactions to a speech he delivered at an event commemorating the late legal icon, Gani Fawehinmi, in Lagos.
During the event, the former Central Bank Governor had remarked, “If I explained [the reforms], it would only benefit this government, and I don’t want to aid this government.”
“They’re my friends. If they don’t behave like friends, I don’t behave like a friend. So, I watch them being stewed, and they don’t even have people with credibility who can come and explain what they’re doing. But I’m not going to help.”
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The statement stirred significant criticism, including a response from the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Idris Mohammed.
Mohammed accused the Emir of prioritizing personal grievances over the nation’s welfare, saying, “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 telling the truth because of personal interest hinged on imaginary antagonism.”
Amid the backlash, Sanusi issued a statement on Friday to provide context and clarity. He emphasized that his remarks had been taken out of context, noting that his speech included nuanced support for the government while addressing the broader challenges Nigeria faces.
“They took one paragraph out of context and sensationalized it. Nothing about the speech, nothing about the nuanced support given to the government, was highlighted,” Sanusi said.
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He reiterated that his comments were meant to counter criticisms raised during the event and to urge Nigerians to rally behind the government’s efforts.
Sanusi also emphasized the importance of supporting the government’s reforms despite the current difficulties, which he attributed to years of mismanagement.
“There is light at the end of the tunnel. We should all pray, support the system, and highlight the good things happening,” he added.
The Emir clarified that his mention of “specific friends” in his speech referred to individuals who understood his intent and the broader context of his remarks. Concluding his statement, Sanusi said, “I am used to my words being twisted. This too shall pass.”