‘They Took One Paragraph Out Of Context And Sensationalized It’ – Sanusi Clarifies Comments On Tinubu’s Reforms

The Emir of Kano, Muhammad Sanusi II, has clarified his remarks on President Bola Tinubu’s reforms, asserting that his comments were misinterpreted and sensationalized.

Naija News reports that the former Central Bank Governor’s speech at an event commemorating the late Gani Fawehinmi in Lagos stirred reactions after he stated he had chosen “not to help the government.”

Sanusi remarked, “If I explained [the reforms], it would only benefit this government, and I don’t want to aid this government. They’re my friends. If they don’t behave like friends, I don’t behave like a friend. So, I watch them being stewed, and they don’t even have people with credibility who can come and explain what they’re doing. But I’m not going to help.”

This statement sparked criticism, including a rebuttal from the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Idris Mohammed, who accused Sanusi of prioritizing personal grievances over national interest.

“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 telling the truth because of personal interest hinged on imaginary antagonism,” Mohammed said.

Responding to the backlash, Sanusi issued a statement on Friday, emphasizing that his words had been taken out of context.

He explained that his speech included nuanced support for the government and recognized the difficulties caused by years of mismanagement.

“They took one paragraph out of context and sensationalised it. Nothing about the speech, nothing about the nuanced support given to the government, was highlighted,” he said.

Sanusi highlighted that his address countered criticisms raised during the event, urging Nigerians to back the government’s efforts.

“There is light at the end of the tunnel. We should all pray, support the system, and highlight the good things happening,” he stated.

The Emir also clarified that the “specific friends” he mentioned in his speech understood his intent. Concluding, he said, “I am used to my words being twisted. This too shall pass.”