Nigeria’s Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris, has accused former Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, of prioritizing personal interests in his recent criticisms of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
In a statement released on Thursday, Mr. Idris responded to comments made by the former emir during the 21st Memorial Lecture of Chief Gani Fawehinmi in Lagos. At the event, Mr. Sanusi claimed that the Tinubu government lacked credible individuals to effectively explain its economic policies to Nigerians.
“I don’t want to help this government. They’re my friends. If they don’t behave like friends, I don’t behave like a friend. They don’t even have people with credibility who can come and explain what they are doing,” Sanusi said. He added, “To be honest, I could make a few points to explain what we are going through—perhaps it was predictable, or maybe avoidable. But I’m not going to do that. I’ve chosen not to speak about the economy.”
Reacting to these remarks, Mr. Idris expressed disappointment, accusing the former emir of undermining crucial reforms for personal reasons. “It is deeply disappointing that reforms widely recognised as essential by global experts—including by Emir Sanusi II himself—are now being subtly condemned by him because of a shift in loyalty,” the minister said.
Also Read:
- Emir Sanusi Criticizes Tinubu’s Government, Claims Lack of Credible Policy Advocates
- N’Assembly Clears JAMB of Misusing Funds, Commends Registrar for Accountability
Mr. Idris called on Sanusi to use his expertise in economics to offer constructive input rather than what he described as divisive criticism. “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. We urge the Emir to rise above personal interests and partisan undertones and prioritize the greater good of Nigerians.”
The minister also emphasized that the Tinubu administration does not require Sanusi’s endorsement to pursue its policies. “We don’t need Sanusi’s stamp of approval for our laudable policies,” he stated. “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration’s mission is to lead Nigeria towards economic inclusivity, sustainability, and shared prosperity. The challenges we face demand courage and collective effort, not divisive narratives.”
Mr. Idris assured Nigerians that the government remains committed to working with well-meaning stakeholders while putting the interests of the country first. “This administration is open to constructive dialogue with all well-meaning stakeholders while remaining steadfast in putting the interests of Nigerians above all else,” he added.