Stop rewarding thieves with public office – Sanusi

The 16th Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, has criticised what he described as the collapse of values in Nigerian society, warning that the country risks decay if it continues to elevate material wealth above integrity and public service. He said it was shameful that individuals who have looted public funds are still being rewarded […]

The 16th Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, has criticised what he described as the collapse of values in Nigerian society, warning that the country risks decay if it continues to elevate material wealth above integrity and public service.

He said it was shameful that individuals who have looted public funds are still being rewarded with high-level appointments, including ministerial positions.

He noted that Nigeria has steadily lost its moral compass, as both the leaders and citizens appear unbothered by the character of those trusted with public responsibility.

“We have been ruled by people who have no values; they have no name behind them and no desire to leave a good name behind,” he said during an interview on Channels Television on Wednesday.

He added that such individuals define themselves by their assets, including multiple houses, private jets, and hefty bank balances, and not by service or impact.

“They think that’s what matters. It doesn’t bother them that the public sees them as thieves or criminals who have stolen from the commonwealth,” he said.

He explained that the problem runs deep, with many people in government lacking proper upbringing or understanding of public service.

“Many people go into government to make money, but you’re not supposed to go into government to make money,” he said.

Sanusi warned that in a country where values such as honesty, diligence, and compassion are pushed aside in favour of ill-gotten wealth, there will be no meaningful development.

He added that it is not enough to blame the president, governors, or ministers for the state of the country, as every citizen has a role in rebuilding national values.

“I think we need an entire regeneration of values,” he said.

He noted that in today’s Nigeria, there is no sense of shame or public outrage when those who looted public funds are given more positions of influence.

“We reward them with more offices and more opportunities to continue stealing,” he said.

Reflecting on the legacy of former Head of State, Murtala Muhammed, Sanusi said the country once had leaders who placed integrity above personal gain, and that standard must be revived.

He explained that part of the national rot was the weakening of the civil service by political actors, stressing that reform must start by rebuilding strong institutions.

“We need to empower civil servants to say ‘no’ when politicians ask them to break the rules,” he said.