The Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi says he has no plans to help the federal government even as it battles multiple economic and security challenges.
The Emir, a former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, made his position and plans concerning the economy and the government known in Lagos on Wednesday at the Memorial Lecture of Chief Gani Fawehinmi.
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Ikeja Branch organised the lecture with the theme, “Bretton Woods and the African Economies: Can Nigerians Survive Another Structural Adjustment Programme?”
“I have decided not to speak about the economy or the reforms, nor to explain anything regarding them. If I explained, it would only benefit this government, and I don’t want to aid this government,” Emir Sanusi said at the lecture, which he chaired.
“I choose not to help this government. You see, they are my friends. If they fail to act like friends, I will not act like one,” Emir Sanusi said, explaining his decision.
“I observe their actions, and they lack credible individuals who can effectively explain their policies. However, I’m not here to assist (them). I began by offering support, but I’ve decided to stop.
“I will not discuss the matter any further. Let them come forward and explain to Nigerians why the policies they have pursued have been implemented. Meanwhile, I am enjoying a nice movie with popcorn in hand.
Although the Emir will not offer advice to the Federal Government or comment on ongoing reforms, he shared his thoughts on why the country was in the state it currently is in – unheeded warnings.
“I will say one thing. What we are going through today is at least in part, not totally, at least in part, a necessary consequence of decades of irresponsible economic management,” he said.
“People were warned decades ago that if they continued down this path, this is where they would end up. They chose not to listen.
“Is everything being done today, correct? No.”
