The federal government has cautioned the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II to desist from imaginary antagonism and support President Bola Tinubu-led government’s economic reform.
The Nigerian government replied on Thursday through the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris.
The reply comes after the Kano Emir and former Central Governor said he intentionally withheld economic advice from the administration.
“I’ve chosen not to speak about the economy and the reforms or to even explain anything because if I explain, it would help this government, and I don’t want to help the government,” Sanusi had said.
But the government criticised Sanusi for admitting withholding support for the reforms.
The government suggested that the decision was influenced by personal grievances.
The minister said, “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 Nigerian government admitted the hardship induced by current economic reforms.
It, however, reiterated that the hardship is the ripple effect of past mistakes.
Idris said, “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.”
The minister urged the former apex bank governor to focus on contributing constructively to national development.
Idris said, “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 rhetorics that undermine 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.”
