The Federal Government responded on Thursday to recent remarks made by Kano Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II against the economic changes implemented by President Bola Tinubu’s government.
Sanusi II, who appeared at a public event in Lagos on Wednesday, acknowledged the importance of the reforms but stated that he would not publicly advise the administration for personal reasons.
In a statement issued by Mohammed Idris, Minister of Information and National Orientation, the government recognised Sanusi’s right to express himself.
However, it questioned his admission of withholding support, asserting that personal grudges rather than an objective evaluation of the programs drove his actions.
It encouraged the emir to put Nigerians’ well-being ahead of personal interests and partisanship.
“First, we acknowledge that Sanusi, and indeed any Nigerian, has the inalienable right to express an opinion either in the form of commendation or criticism on how the government is being run.
“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 minister noted.
The government emphasised the necessity of the reforms to address Nigeria’s longstanding economic challenges.
Idris noted, “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.”
It highlighted achievements such as the unification of exchange rates, which has increased investor confidence and foreign reserves, and the removal of the fuel subsidy, which has freed up resources for critical sectors like healthcare, education, and infrastructure.
Projections from international organisations, including the World Bank, were used to demonstrate the positive impact of these policies on the country’s economic recovery.
The statement expressed disappointment with Sanusi’s perceived shift in loyalty and urged him to focus on constructive contributions to national development.
“We urge the emir to rise above personal interests and partisan undertones and prioritise the greater good of Nigerians.
“Rebuilding Nigeria requires unity, focus, and sacrifice from all stakeholders. As a government, we urge esteemed leaders to refrain from rhetoric that undermines public trust.
“Instead, they owe it a duty to champion the collective goal of a prosperous Nigeria. This is a critical time for our country; what is needed is collaboration, not unnecessary distractions,” he noted.
The administration emphasised the necessity of leaders working together during this important era, emphasising that divisive rhetoric damages public trust and progress.
Tinubu’s administration restated its commitment to promoting an inclusive and sustainable economy, and it encouraged constructive conversation with stakeholders.
The administration finished by asking Nigerians to put collective prosperity ahead of personal or political interests, emphasising the shared aim of a stronger and more prosperous Nigeria.
