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Sanusi Defends Himself Against FG’s Claims of Misrepresenting His Views on Tinubu’s Policies

Published by Tope Fakinlede on January 19th, 2025.

Sanusi Defends Himself Against FG’s Claims of Misrepresenting His Views on Tinubu’s Policies

Muhammad Sanusi II, the 16th Emir of Kano, has criticized the Federal Government’s response to his recent comments regarding President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

Sanusi argued that his remarks were distorted and overly simplified into a single paragraph. The controversy erupted last week when he discussed Tinubu’s policies, stating that he would no longer offer advice on how to address Nigeria’s economic challenges.

Speaking at a memorial lecture for the late human rights activist, Chief Gani Fawehinmi, Sanusi explained that he initially sought to assist the government but had now decided to withhold his support unless the Tinubu administration acted more like a true ally.

“I’ve chosen not to comment on the economy or reforms anymore, because offering explanations would only help this government. While they are my friends, if they don’t treat me as such, I won’t engage with them as a friend,” he said.

The Federal Government responded sharply to Sanusi’s statement, with officials suggesting that they didn’t need his approval of Tinubu’s policies. Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, expressed disappointment over the Emir’s remarks.

In a rebuttal posted on his X (formerly Twitter) account, Sanusi claimed that his comments had been misrepresented. He emphasized that his broader message was lost, noting that only one paragraph was highlighted out of context. He clarified that his full statement included recognition of the government’s reforms, acknowledgment of the hardships Nigerians face due to past mismanagement, and optimism for the future.

Sanusi reiterated his support for the necessary reforms under Tinubu’s leadership and stressed the importance of collective national support to overcome the current economic challenges.