Former Emir of Kano and ex-Central Bank Governor, Muhammadu Sanusi II, has voiced strong criticism of President Bola Tinubu’s economic policies, highlighting critical lapses in the administration’s approach. Speaking at the 21st Memorial Lecture for Chief Gani Fawehinmi, organized by the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) in Ikeja, Sanusi condemned the government’s failure to address pressing economic challenges and effectively communicate its reforms to Nigerians.
Sanusi pointed to the long-standing effects of poor governance as the root of Nigeria’s current economic woes. However, he underscored the inadequacy of the current administration in managing its reform strategies. Specific policies like the removal of fuel subsidies and the floating of the naira, according to Sanusi, have exacerbated inflation and deepened the hardship for many Nigerians.
“I won’t offer advice to this administration,” he said. “They are my friends, but if they don’t act like friends, I won’t act like one either.”
Sanusi characterized the present challenges as avoidable and predictable, lamenting that the government lacks the expertise required to implement and explain its economic decisions effectively.
The strained relationship between Sanusi and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) was also a focal point. In 2020, he was controversially deposed as Emir of Kano by then-Governor Abdullahi Ganduje, who now serves as the APC National Chairman. Although reinstated by the current Kano Governor, Abba Yusuf, the contentious nature of his removal continues to cast a shadow over his interactions with the APC.
The memorial lecture, which celebrated the legacy of human rights advocate Gani Fawehinmi, also featured Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo (SAN). Represented by Henry Agbebire, a director from the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Keyamo lauded Fawehinmi as a beacon of justice and integrity. Reflecting on his time as Fawehinmi’s protégé, Keyamo emphasized his continued commitment to promoting human rights and advocating for equitable governance.
The event brought together several prominent legal and human rights figures, including NBA President Afam Osigwe (SAN), Lagos State Attorney General Lawal Pedro (SAN), and human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN). Discussions at the lecture centered on Nigeria’s economic challenges, with speakers exploring strategies for fostering sustainable development and advancing social justice.
The lecture not only honored Fawehinmi’s legacy but also served as a platform for Sanusi’s impassioned critique of Nigeria’s economic trajectory, urging the government to embrace better governance and transparency in addressing the nation’s mounting crises.
