Haruna Abubakar Bebeji
In the realm of social justice and the pursuit of rights, it is disheartening to witness individuals who were once hailed as champions of the people, suddenly betraying the very cause they were supposed to fight for. Recent events have shed light on one such individual, who, despite his previous reputations, has shown a complete disregard for justice and the rights of the people. This person’s fall from grace, resulting in his deposition as an Emir, serves as a stark reminder that no amount of cheap publicity or appeasement of benefactors can justify their actions. In recent times, the actions of certain individuals have revealed the true nature of their character, as they prioritized personal gain over the pursuit of justice.
Former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, has demonstrated such a betrayal, undermining the fight for justice and disregarding the rights of the people. Muhammadu Sanusi II’s recent actions has to be condemned in all ramifications especially from the Northern Nigerians and he should be made aware of the importance of not compromising one’s principles for personal gain or appeasement of influential benefactors.
In any thriving society, elders are revered for their wisdom and invaluable contribution to the progress and stability of their communities. Such is the case in Northern Nigeria, where the respect for elders is deeply rooted in the culture. Unfortunately, recent times have witnessed individuals challenging and ridiculing the words of these esteemed individuals, and this unpardonable behavior poses a threat to the unity and prosperity of our beloved North.
When individuals assume the role of defenders of the people, they carry the responsibility of upholding justice and fighting for the rights of the marginalized. However, Sanusi’s recent actions have shown a complete disregard for these ideals. The trust placed in him by the people has been shattered, leaving them disillusioned and betrayed. It is a stark reminder that power and influence can corrupt even those who were once seen as champions of the people.
Elders in Northern Nigeria are not just individuals who have lived through years; they are the guardians and possessors of invaluable knowledge. Their wealth of experience and wisdom accumulated over time make them the guides and leaders of our society. It is through their insightful guidance that the larger community thrives and progresses. By challenging or ridiculing the words of our elders, we jeopardize the very foundation of our communities, nations, and countries.
Sanusi’s support for the relocation of CBN departments from the head office in Abuja to Lagos raises questions about his motives. Allegations suggest that many employees in Abuja prioritize their personal lifestyles and businesses over their work at the bank, leading to a decline in efficiency. While Sanusi may argue that the relocation serves the bank’s interests, it is essential to scrutinize his intentions. Is he genuinely concerned about efficiency, or is there an ulterior motive driving his support for the move?
Northern Nigeria is known for its deep respect for traditional institutions and elders, which serve as the pillars of our cultural heritage. These institutions hold immense influence over their subjects, and their judgment and guidance are highly regarded. However, in recent times, we have witnessed the disrespectful challenges and ridicule faced by our elders. Such acts driven by personal interests or ulterior motives must be condemned, as they destabilize the harmony and progress within our region.
Abuja’s status as the Federal Capital of Nigeria is a strong constitutional provision that no individual or group including the President can change it. The status of Abuja can only change if there is a constitutional amendment to that effect and the cumbersome and controversial process of changing or altering the constitution is well known.
One of the main concerns raised against the relocation of departments from Abuja to Lagos is the potential harm it poses to the unity of Nigeria. Alhaji Bashir Dalhatu, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), aptly highlights that the move threatens the symbolic concept of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in Abuja as a unifying force for all Nigerians. He expresses fear that this precedent could lead to further fragmentation based on regional or commercial considerations.
In times like these, it is crucial to uphold the values that underpin the fight for justice and the pursuit of rights. True champions of the people must remain committed to the cause, resisting temptation and pressure. Individuals like Bashir Dalhatu, who have dedicated themselves to the development of Northern Nigeria and advocate for justice, should be commended, not attacked.
With his outburst, it became apparent that Muhammadu Sanusi’s intentions were far from noble. His actions contradicted the very principles he once professed to uphold. The people especially Northerners, who had placed their trust in him, were left disillusioned and betrayed.
No wonder he was deposed as an Emir and thanks to former Kano State Governor Ganduje for dethroning him. Not until now do we understand that his deposition as an Emir is a resounding message that his actions were unacceptable and incompatible with the responsibilities he once held. The people, who had once looked up to him as a beacon of hope, now stand united in their disappointment and anger. The consequences of this betrayal should serve as a warning to all those who seek to exploit the people’s cause for personal gain or to appease their benefactors.
In our quest to protect our values and rights, we have the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), a political and cultural association that represents our interests and concerns. The Forum is dedicated to upholding democratic principles within the federal constitution. With the ACF, we have a collective voice that empowers us to challenge any injustice or disrespect faced by our elders. The ACF serves as a unified front, standing firmly against anyone who tries to undermine our cherished traditions and respected leaders.
The words of Late Malam Aminu Kano “Nigeria is one but everyone knows his father’s house”; resonate with the people of Arewa, reminding us of our roots and our duty to uphold the principles and values of our beloved North. As proud Nigerians, we cherish and respect our diverse cultures, but we must not forget our individual heritage. We stand united to protect our interests, while also contributing to the overall development of our great nation.
True champions of the people must remain steadfast in their commitment to the cause, unwavering in the face of temptation or pressure. The people deserve leaders who will fight for their rights like Wazirin Dutse, not those who will use their position for personal gain or to please those in power like Sanusi.
In conclusion, the actions of Muhammadu Sanusi, former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, serve as a warning against compromising principles for personal gain. His betrayal of the people’s trust emphasizes the gravity of this offense. Leaders must prioritize justice and the rights of the marginalized above their own interests or those of influential benefactors. Individuals like Bashir Dalhatu, who fight for justice and contribute significantly to the development of Northern Nigeria, deserve our respect.
The importance of elders and traditional institutions cannot be overstated in the progress and stability of any society. Northern Nigeria’s respect for its elders is deeply embedded in its ethos, and it is our sacred duty to safeguard this tradition. By challenging or ridiculing the wisdom of our elders, we poison the very essence of our community, nation, and country.
As proud individuals from Arewa, let us come together under the umbrella of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), embracing our shared heritage and values. We must strive for unity, resisting any attempt to undermine or disrespect our respected leaders. Only by upholding the wisdom of our elders can we ensure a thriving and prosperous future for Northern Nigeria – a future we can be proud to pass on to future generations.
Lastly, let this be a reminder that the pursuit of justice should never be sacrificed, no matter one’s motives or positions of power.
Haruna Abubakar Bebeji wrote from Kano
