Tinubu and Emir Sanusi: From Allies to Adversaries Over Political Tensions
The once-friendly relationship between President Bola Tinubu and the Emir of Kano, Muhammad Sanusi II, has turned sour, marred by political tensions, legal battles over the Kano Emirate, and contrasting views on governance.
Their differences became evident when Sanusi openly declared on Wednesday that he would no longer assist the Presidency in explaining its economic policies. In response, the Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris, swiftly dismissed the need for Sanusi’s support.
While Sanusi later clarified that his statement was taken out of context, the Federal Government’s reaction highlighted a deep-seated rift between the former allies.
From Political Alliance to Falling Out
Sanusi’s association with Tinubu grew stronger after he was dismissed as Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) by President Goodluck Jonathan on October 30, 2013.
His removal followed allegations that $20 billion in oil revenue was unaccounted for, alongside other accusations of financial mismanagement against the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL).
During his tenure at the CBN, Sanusi’s outspoken stance against corruption made him a key opposition figure, aligning him with the camp led by Tinubu.
His influence extended beyond finance into politics, making him a formidable critic of the Jonathan administration. When the Kano Emirate throne became vacant, Tinubu and other political figures backed Sanusi’s ascension, leading to his appointment by then-Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso.
However, despite his position as a traditional ruler, Sanusi remained vocal on governance issues, particularly concerning northern Nigeria. His criticisms of Kano State Governor Abdullahi Ganduje eventually led to his dethronement on March 9, 2020, after which he was exiled to Nasarawa State.
Hours later, the Kano State Government announced Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero as his successor.
Sanusi’s Political Alliances and Their Impact
Following his removal, Nasir El-Rufai, then Governor of Kaduna State, emerged as one of Sanusi’s staunchest allies. El-Rufai visited Sanusi in Nasarawa and later accompanied him to Abuja. He also appointed him as Vice Chairman of the Kaduna Investment Promotion Agency and Chancellor of Kaduna State University.
Sanusi, in turn, publicly praised El-Rufai, describing him as “a friend to count on” in 2020.
Many political analysts believe that El-Rufai’s current opposition to the Tinubu administration may have influenced Sanusi’s recent stance against the government.
A Shift in Tone: Sanusi’s Criticism of Tinubu’s Economic Policies
In June 2023, Sanusi visited Tinubu and commended his economic reforms, particularly the removal of subsidies and exchange rate unification.
At the time, he stated:
“We’ve been friends since his first term as Governor of Lagos when I was a banker. I came to congratulate him formally. I also want to thank him for addressing critical economic challenges early in his administration.”
However, in January 2024, during the 12th Memorial Lecture of Chief Gani Fawehinmi in Lagos, Sanusi criticized the government’s handling of economic reforms. He argued that while the policies seemed promising in theory, they failed to alleviate the immediate struggles of Nigerians dealing with inflation and unemployment.
He further stated:
“I have chosen not to speak on the economy because doing so would help this government, and I don’t want to help them. They are my friends, but if they don’t act like friends, I won’t either. They don’t even have competent people explaining their policies, but I won’t assist.”
Federal Government Reacts Strongly
The Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris, countered Sanusi’s remarks, urging him to put national interest above personal grievances.
“We do not need Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II’s approval for President Tinubu’s policies. It is disappointing that a leader would withhold the truth for personal reasons.”
The Presidential Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, also criticized Sanusi, accusing him of shifting loyalties.
“His Highness has a duty to contribute constructively, rather than undermining reforms simply because he feels estranged from his former allies in government.”
The Kano Emirate Legal Battle and Political Undercurrents
Insiders suggest that Sanusi’s legal battle over the Kano Emirate throne has played a crucial role in his fallout with the Presidency.
According to sources, APC National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje, who removed Sanusi in 2020, has actively supported Ado Bayero’s return to the throne and allegedly mobilized federal resources to achieve this goal.
A Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) revealed that the Presidency has backed Bayero over Sanusi in the legal battle, using the Federal High Court as a tool against him.
“The Presidency is not supporting Sanusi. They favor Ado Bayero, who was installed by Ganduje. The Supreme Court has ruled that the Federal High Court lacks jurisdiction over traditional rulership matters, yet the government persists in challenging Sanusi’s authority.”
Additionally, the APC’s long-term political strategy includes a potential division of Kano State ahead of the 2027 general elections—a move that could weaken Sanusi’s influence.
A political source confirmed:
“Some factions now refer to Sanusi as the Emir of Kano, while others call Bayero the Emir of Abuja. The rift between Tinubu and Sanusi is largely due to the presidency’s efforts to permanently remove him.”
Political Implications and Expert Opinions
A political aide to a former vice president suggested that the Presidency views Sanusi as a threat, given his ties to Kwankwaso and the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP).
“Sanusi is seen as loyal to Kwankwaso, which threatens the APC’s hold on Kano. The Presidency is working behind the scenes to secure Kano ahead of 2027, which includes supporting Bayero over Sanusi.”
A prominent Kano indigene, speaking anonymously, added that Ganduje and the Federal Government were uncomfortable with Sanusi’s popularity among Kano residents, fearing it could cost APC votes in the next election.
Scholars Weigh In on Sanusi’s Criticism
A Bayero University professor, Kamilu Fagge, stated that while Sanusi had the right to his opinion, his public withdrawal of support for Tinubu was surprising.
“It’s unexpected, given his previous praise for the President. However, I don’t believe his shift in tone is directly linked to the legal battle.”
On the other hand, public affairs analyst Mustapha Kwaru argued that Sanusi’s criticisms reflected genuine public frustration with Tinubu’s administration.
“Sanusi’s remarks align with the struggles of ordinary Nigerians. The reforms, while beneficial in the long run, have made life harder for many people in the short term.”
However, Kwaru questioned whether Sanusi’s approach was too confrontational, warning that it could further divide the public and political class.
“Given his influence, Sanusi could have conveyed his concerns in a more constructive way. His public withdrawal of support risks escalating tensions further.”
Conclusion: A Relationship at a Crossroads
The fallout between President Tinubu and Emir Sanusi highlights the deep political divisions within Nigeria, particularly in Kano. With legal battles ongoing and 2027 elections on the horizon, this rift is far from over.
Whether reconciliation is possible remains uncertain, but Sanusi’s stance against Tinubu has undoubtedly reshaped the political landscape.
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