The 16th Emir of Kano, Muhammad Sanusi II, has disclosed his reasons for not supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, citing personal grievances and the lack of credible figures in the government to explain its policies.
Speaking in Lagos as chairman of the 21st Anniversary of Fawehinmiism (Gani Fawehinmi Annual Lecture 2025), Sanusi said he had insights into the administration’s economic trajectory and decisions but decided not to share them. He expressed dissatisfaction with how he has been treated, stating, “I can explain what we’re going through, how it was predictable, and maybe avoidable. But I won’t, because if I explain, it would help this government, and I don’t want to help this government.”
Sanusi described his relationship with the government as strained, adding, “They are my friends, but if they don’t act like friends, I won’t act like one. They lack credible people who can explain what they’re doing. I started out helping, but I have stopped. Let them explain to Nigerians why their policies are what they are.”
He also criticized past and present governments for poor economic management, which he said led to the current challenges. “What we are experiencing today is a result of decades of irresponsible decisions. People were warned, but they refused to open their eyes,” he noted.
Efforts to get reactions from the presidency were unsuccessful at the time of filing this report. Calls and messages to key officials went unanswered, and one adviser stated he was unavailable for comments.
Sanusi’s recent remarks come amid his ongoing disputes with the federal government. His reinstatement as the 16th Emir of Kano in 2024 by the Kano State Government has been met with resistance from federal authorities, who continue to recognize his predecessor, Aminu Ado Bayero.