Rita Odafe
Nigerian Government Responds to Emir of Kano
The Nigerian government has issued a response to Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II after he declared that he would refrain from providing advice on how to address insecurity and hunger in the nation.
In its reaction, the federal government indicated that it does not require the Emir’s counsel.
This response was communicated through a statement made by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, following the Emir’s remarks about Nigeria’s economic situation.
During the 21st Memorial Lecture of Chief Gani Fawehinmi in Lagos, the Emir expressed his decision to abstain from advising President Bola Tinubu’s administration on managing the country’s economic difficulties.
The Emir stated, “I could mention several points regarding our current situation and how it was foreseeable and preventable. However, I have opted not to do so. I’ve chosen to refrain from commenting on the economy or reforms because offering my insights would assist this government, and I do not wish to assist them. While I consider them my friends, I will not assist them if they do not act like friends.”
“They lack individuals of merit who could explain their actions to the public. I will no longer provide help. Initially, I attempted to assist, but that will not continue. They ought to clarify to Nigerians why they are following these policies.”
“What we are experiencing today is partly due to decades of mismanagement. Warnings were issued about the consequences of our continued path, but they went unheeded.”
“Is everything being managed correctly? No. I will speak on the economy when I decide to.”
In response to these statements from the Emir, the Minister of Information and National Orientation expressed disappointment over what he described as negative remarks concerning the reforms implemented under Tinubu’s government, attributing this to an alleged “shift in loyalty” from the Emir.
