The Emir of Kano, Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, has expressed his reluctance to assist President Bola Tinubu’s administration in addressing the economic challenges facing 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 criticized the government for its lack of credible representatives to explain its policies to the public.
Sanusi’s remarks highlighted his disappointment with the administration’s approach to economic management.
While acknowledging that the current economic hardship is partly a result of poor policies from previous governments, he emphasized that President Tinubu’s government bears responsibility for its decisions and should provide clarity to Nigerians.
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“To be honest, I can stand here today and I can give a few points that are contrary, a few points that explain, perhaps, what we’re going through and how it was totally predictable, most of it, and maybe avoidable, but I’m not going to do that,” the Emir stated.
Sanusi further explained his decision to withhold support, stating, “I’ve chosen not to speak about the economy and the reforms, or to even explain anything, because if I explain, it would help this government, and I don’t want to help the government. I don’t want to help this government.”
He lamented the lack of credible individuals within the administration who could effectively communicate the rationale behind its policies, noting that he initially attempted to assist but has since refrained.
“You know, 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. I’m not going to discuss it,” he added.
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The former CBN governor, known for his candid views on economic issues, also acknowledged that Nigeria’s current economic struggles are a partial consequence of decades of mismanagement.
“What we’re going through today is at least in part, not totally, at least in part, a necessary consequence of decades of irresponsible economic management,” he said.
Sanusi’s comments come amid widespread public outcry over the rising cost of living and the perceived lack of transparency surrounding the government’s economic reforms.