Emir of Kano Muhammadu Sanusi II Criticizes Nigerian Political Elite for Treating Public Office as Personal Gain

.In a powerful and thought-provoking speech, Muhammadu Sanusi II, the respected Emir of Kano and former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, has strongly condemned the country's political elite for deliberately obstructing Nigeria's progress. He argues that many leaders treat positions of power as avenues for personal gain and family enrichment rather than opportunities to serve the public and advance the nation.

The remarks came during the 15th anniversary event of Enough is Enough (EiE) Nigeria, a prominent civic organization dedicated to promoting good governance and citizen engagement, held in Lagos. Sanusi's address highlighted deep-rooted issues in Nigerian politics, including corruption, self-interest, and a lack of commitment to national welfare.

Self-Serving Leadership: A Major Barrier to Nigeria's Growth

According to the Emir, the core problem lies in how Nigeria's ruling class perceives public office. Instead of viewing leadership as a sacred trust to improve the lives of citizens, many politicians see it as a "family business" designed to benefit themselves, their relatives, and close allies. This mindset, he explained, leads to the deliberate bypassing of crucial opportunities that could drive economic growth, infrastructure development, and social welfare improvements.

"We have inflicted enough damage on this country, and perhaps it's time we put an end to it," Sanusi reportedly stated. He emphasized that Nigeria's challenges are not merely the result of accidental oversights but often stem from intentional decisions to prioritize personal agendas over collective progress. These missed chances for advancement have compounded over the years, leaving the nation struggling with persistent poverty, unemployment, and inequality despite its abundant natural resources and human potential.

Sanusi, known for his frank opinions on Nigerian governance and corruption, pointed out that public office should fundamentally be about serving the people. Yet, in reality, decisions are frequently made with narrow interests in mind, sidelining the broader needs of millions of ordinary Nigerians.

Divisions Fueled by Ethnicity, Religion, and Personal Ambition

Delving deeper into the structural flaws, the former CBN governor described Nigeria's current political framework as one riddled with ethnic rivalries, religious tensions, and an unhealthy competition for individual power and wealth. These divisive elements, he argued, create a dysfunctional system that prevents unity and hinders meaningful development.

In a country as diverse as Nigeria, with over 250 ethnic groups and a mix of religious beliefs, leaders should ideally work to bridge gaps and foster inclusivity. However, Sanusi lamented that the opposite often occurs, with politics exploited to deepen divisions for short-term gains. This not only erodes trust in government institutions but also perpetuates cycles of instability and underperformance.

The Emir's critique aligns with ongoing debates about bad governance in Nigeria, where corruption in politics remains a hot topic. Analysts and citizens alike have long expressed frustration over how political corruption and lack of accountable leadership continue to stall the country's potential. Nigeria, often called the "Giant of Africa" due to its population and resources, frequently ranks low on global indices for ease of doing business, human development, and transparency.

A Call to Action: Empowering Nigerian Youth for Change

Amid his sharp criticism, Sanusi offered a message of hope, directing his appeal particularly to the younger generation. He urged Nigerian youth to rise above the flawed system they have inherited and actively work towards dismantling it. By coming together across ethnic, religious, and regional lines, young people can forge a new path defined by unity, shared values, and a collective vision for prosperity.

The Emir encouraged the youth to reject the status quo—a Nigeria shaped by years of mismanagement, tribalism, and self-enrichment—and instead build one that realizes its immense capabilities. He stressed that the country belongs to its citizens, not just politicians or the government, and everyone has a role in contributing to its improvement.

This rallying cry resonates strongly in a nation where youth make up a significant portion of the population and have been at the forefront of movements demanding better leadership and anti-corruption measures. Events like the #EndSARS protests in recent years demonstrated the power of young Nigerians to push for reform, and Sanusi's words serve as a reminder of their potential to drive lasting change.

Why Sanusi's Voice Matters in Discussions on Nigerian Politics

Muhammadu Sanusi II is no stranger to speaking truth to power. As a former central bank chief, he gained recognition for bold reforms and exposing financial irregularities. His reinstatement as Emir of Kano after a period of dethronement further solidified his status as a influential figure unafraid of controversy.

His recent comments add to a growing chorus of concerns about political corruption in Nigeria and the urgent need for accountable leadership. In a time when economic hardships, insecurity, and infrastructure deficits dominate public discourse, voices like Sanusi's highlight the link between poor governance and stalled development.

Experts agree that addressing these issues requires not just policy changes but a fundamental shift in leadership mindset. Strengthening institutions, promoting transparency, and fostering civic participation are key steps toward building a more equitable Nigeria.

Looking Ahead: Can Nigeria Overcome These Challenges?

Sanusi's speech at the EiE Nigeria anniversary underscores a critical juncture for the country. With elections, policy debates, and social movements shaping the national conversation, there is an opportunity to demand better from leaders.

For Nigeria to achieve sustainable development, tackling self-serving politics and corruption head-on is essential. Youth empowerment, unified action, and a commitment to public service could pave the way for a brighter future.

As the Emir eloquently put it, the potential is there—it's up to Nigerians, especially the next generation, to unlock it through determination and collective effort.

This outspoken intervention by Muhammadu Sanusi II reignites important discussions on good governance in Nigeria, the fight against political corruption, and the role of accountable leadership in unlocking the nation's true prosperity. It serves as a wake-up call for all stakeholders to prioritize national interest over personal gain.