The Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, has indeed issued a stern warning to President Bola Tinubu, urging him not to reward thieves with ministerial appointments. Sanusi emphasized that Nigeria’s value system has been eroded, and the society rewards individuals who have amassed wealth through questionable means with more public offices and opportunities. He stressed that public office holders should prioritize serving the nation, not accumulating personal wealth.¹
Key Points of Sanusi’s Warning:
- Condemnation of Corruption: Sanusi condemned the appointment of individuals with questionable integrity into public office, citing that this perpetuates a system where material wealth is prioritized over values like honesty and diligence.
- Regeneration of Values: He called for a collective awakening to restore Nigeria’s moral fabric, emphasizing the need for honesty, diligence, and compassion in governance.
- Strengthening the Civil Service: Sanusi advocated for empowering civil servants to resist political pressure and uphold accountability, highlighting the importance of a robust civil service in promoting good governance.
- Shared Responsibility: He emphasized that the responsibility for change lies not only with leaders but also with citizens, underscoring the need for a collective effort to reform Nigeria’s value system.²
Sanusi’s sentiments echo those of former Governor Colonel Abubakar Dangiwa Umar, who also cautioned President Tinubu against appointing desperate lobbyists and individuals of dubious character to his cabinet.³
