‘They Don’t Behave Like Friends’ – Emir Sanusi Says He Won’t Help Tinubu’s Government
The 16th Emir of Kano, Muhammad Sanusi II, has criticized the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, stating that he would not help them correct policies he believes are adversely affecting citizens.
Sanusi, speaking on Wednesday as chairman of the 21st Anniversary of Fawehinmiism (Gani Fawehinmi Annual Lecture 2025) in Lagos, expressed dissatisfaction with the government’s handling of the economy and its policies.
“I can give a few points that are contrary, that explain perhaps what we’re going through and how it was totally predictable, most of it, and maybe avoidable. But I am not going to do that,” he said.
The former Emir explained that while he could provide insights to improve the administration’s trajectory, he deliberately chose not to. He attributed this decision to what he described as a lack of reciprocal respect and friendship from the government.
“I have chosen not to speak about the economy or the reforms or to even explain anything because if I explain, it would help this government, but I don’t want to help this government.
“You know they’re my friends, but if they don’t behave like friends, I don’t behave like a friend. So I watch them being stooges. And they don’t even have people with credibility who can come and explain what they are doing. I am not going to help. I started out helping, but I am not going to help. I am not going to discuss it. Let them come and explain to Nigerians why the policies that are being pursued are being pursued,” Sanusi added.
He further criticized the administration for failing to heed warnings about the potential consequences of certain policies.
“People were told decades ago that if you continue along this path, this is where you’re going to end up, and they refused to open their eyes. Now, is everything being done today correct? No,” the former Emir said
