Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, has delivered a scathing rebuke of Nigeria’s political elite, accusing those in power of lacking integrity, honour, and any commitment to national development.
In an interview with Channels Television, the outspoken traditional ruler and former Central Bank governor said Nigeria is governed by individuals who are driven solely by material wealth and have no regard for values or legacy.
“We are being ruled by people who have no values, no reputable name to uphold, and no interest in leaving behind a good name,” Sanusi said. “Their worth is measured by how many houses they own, how many private jets they can afford, and how much they have in their bank accounts. It doesn’t bother them that they are perceived as thieves — values mean nothing to them.”
Sanusi decried what he described as a moral collapse in the country’s public sector, noting that corrupt individuals are often rewarded with more powerful positions, rather than being held accountable.
“In Nigeria, people who are known to have stolen public funds are celebrated and reappointed. We promote them, give them more offices, and more chances to steal. This is the tragedy of our society,” he lamented.
He further attributed the widespread corruption and disregard for public service ethics to a lack of proper upbringing among many public officials.
“Many of them were not properly raised,” he said. “They go into government not to serve, but to enrich themselves.”
Reflecting on the legacy of the late Head of State, General Murtala Muhammed, Sanusi argued that Nigeria needs a total moral rebirth, stressing that meaningful transformation cannot rest on the shoulders of one individual.
“It’s not about one president or governor. What we need is a complete regeneration of our values,” he said.
The Emir also criticised politicians for systematically weakening the civil service and eroding institutional accountability, warning that unless public institutions are strengthened, sustainable reform will remain elusive.
“In a society where people respect wealth regardless of how it is obtained, corruption will always thrive,” Sanusi warned.
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