The emir of Kano, Muhammad Sanusi II, has addressed his previous comments regarding President Bola Tinubu’s reforms, claiming that they were sensationalized and taken out of context.
Widespread reactions followed the remarks, which were made on Wednesday at a ceremony in Lagos in memory of the late Gani Fawehinmi.
In his original speech, Sanusi acknowledged the reforms implemented by the current administration but stated that he had chosen “not to help the government.”
He explained, “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.”
He also added that the government lacked credible voices to explain its actions and that he would not offer support.
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The comments sparked criticism, with Idris Mohammed, Minister of Information and National Orientation, accusing Sanusi of letting personal grievances influence his stance.
Mohammed suggested that withholding the truth for personal reasons was unbecoming of someone in a leadership position.
In response, Sanusi issued a statement on Friday, clarifying that his comments had been misinterpreted.
He explained that his speech contained nuanced support for the government and acknowledged the difficulties the administration faces after years of mismanagement.
“They took one paragraph out of context and sensationalized it. Nothing about the nuanced support I gave to the government was highlighted,” he said.
Sanusi also emphasised that his speech had been a counterpoint to criticisms made at the event, urging Nigerians to support the government.
“There is light at the end of the tunnel. We should all pray, support the system, and highlight the good things happening,” he added.
Concluding his statement, the Emir remarked that the “specific friends” he had referred to in his speech understood his intent, and expressed his accustomed resilience in the face of misinterpretations, saying, “I am used to my words being twisted. This too shall pass.”
