Sanusi Affirms His Right to Advise Leaders Without Constitutional Mandate

The Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, has asserted that he does not require any constitutional authority to advise the President or state governors on crucial matters affecting Nigeria.

Sanusi made this statement on Wednesday during an interview with Channels Television.

He emphasized the vital role that traditional leaders play in the governance structure of Nigeria, noting that they are essential to the country's development.

Sanusi articulated that his internship to offer advice stems from the trust of the people he represents, rather than any formal constitutional basis.

"Do I need to be instructed to counsel the President? If I perceive something amiss in the nation, I feel compelled to approach the President directly. A governor does not need the Constitution to hear my thoughts on necessary actions. My authority as a leader is derived from my connection with the people," he stated.

He acknowledged the discourse suggesting that the advisory capacity of traditional rulers ought to be explicitly enshrined in the Constitution, but he argued that true leadership obligations extend beyond mere legal definitions.

Sanusi noted that traditional institutions remain moral guides within society, amidst the changing political landscape.

"Traditional institutions are crucial for effective governance. While we recognize that governors wield executive power, the times have evolved," he added.

On the topic of women's representation, he urged for increased female involvement in Nigeria's political landscape and leadership roles.

He insisted that the goal of sustainable nation-building is unattainable without significant contributions from women, encouraging political parties and stakeholders to embrace more female candidates for elections.

Additionally, the Emir condemned domestic violence, labeling it a serious injustice that cannot be justified by cultural norms.

"It is unacceptable to harm a woman simply because one’s culture permits it. Every woman is a Nigerian citizen and deserves protection," he remarked.

Sanusi dismissed the perspective that the abuse of women is merely a cultural issue, asserting that it reflects power imbalances.

"In situations where men possess power and women lack protection, men exploit that power to oppress women," he added.

He pointed out that violence impacts numerous vulnerable demographics within society, encompassing women, children, the impoverished, and individuals with disabilities.

Sanusi reiterated that the rights of all citizens should be upheld without exception.

"As a nation, we should recognize that all individuals, as citizens and human beings, possess rights. Those rights are inviolable and cannot be breached in the name of cultural practices," he concluded.

Reports indicate that Sanusi’s stance aligns with his long-standing engagement in political discourse. During his tenure as the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria from 2009 to 2014, he was notably vocal about fiscal responsibility, banking reforms, and transparency regarding oil revenue.

In 2013, he addressed then-President Goodluck Jonathan concerning unremitted funds from oil sales, which triggered widespread controversy.

His dismissal in February 2014 was widely perceived as a consequence of his open critiques regarding governance issues.

Since assuming the Emirate of Kano, Sanusi has consistently utilized public platforms to address topics such as poverty, education, population growth, insecurity, corruption, and governance failures. He has frequently criticized policies at federal and state levels that he believes further disadvantage average Nigerians.