The Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, has offered a rare and personal reflection on one of Nigeria’s most significant historical tragedies—the assassination of General Murtala Ramat Mohammed, Nigeria’s fourth military Head of State. In a recent television appearance, the former Central Bank Governor recounted precisely where he was when the shocking incident occurred. Sanusi revealed that he was a student at King’s College in Lagos on the day the military coup, orchestrated by Lt. Col. Bukar Suka Dimka, led to the killing of Murtala Mohammed. The event, which unfolded on February 13, 1976, remains one of the darkest episodes in Nigeria’s post-independence political history. A Personal Bond Beyond Politics Speaking on Politics Today, a popular political talk show on Channels Television, Sanusi paid an emotional tribute to the late Murtala Mohammed, referring to him not only as a national hero but also a beloved family member. According to the Emir, “Murtala Mohammed was more than a national figure to me; he was my uncle. My father served in Nigeria’s foreign service, so I was raised in the household of my great uncle, Alhaji Inuwa Wada, who was also an uncle to Murtala. We knew him within the family as Uncle Kawu Murtala.” Sanusi recounted his formative years in Lagos, particularly how he was sent to King’s College in 1973. During that time, Murtala Mohammed became his legal guardian. “Naturally, he took up the responsibility of my welfare. I spent almost every weekend, midterm break, and part of my holidays at his residence, bonding closely with his children. I was truly part of his household,” he said. Gentle Beneath the Tough Exterior Reflecting on Murtala’s personality, Sanusi painted a picture that contrasts with the rigid and often intimidating public persona the late Head of State is remembered for. “He had this widely accepted image of being firm, decisive, and unyielding—but to those of us who lived with him, he was a gentle soul. He was humorous, considerate, and had a warm heart,” Sanusi recalled. Sanusi concluded by noting that he was physically at King’s College on the very day his guardian, Murtala Mohammed, was assassinated. The traumatic memory of that day still lingers for him. This heartfelt revelation gives Nigerians a deeper, more intimate view of the iconic leader, showing that beyond his military achievements and political impact, Murtala Mohammed was also a caring family man whose legacy still resonates within his extended family and the nation at large.
Muhammadu Sanusi II, the former Emir of Kano, has expressed strong disapproval over what he describes as a moral collapse in Nigerian governance and societal values. During an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Wednesday, Sanusi voiced concern about the normalization of corruption and the culture of rewarding known looters with high-ranking government roles. According to Sanusi, Nigeria must end the practice of promoting individuals known for embezzling public funds by offering them prestigious government appointments. He stressed that when a society glorifies wealth regardless of its origin, it sends a dangerous message—one that reinforces corruption as acceptable or even admirable. “When a society begins to respect material success without questioning its origin,” Sanusi remarked, “and elevates those who have looted the public treasury to ministerial or governmental roles, such a system is bound to regenerate corruption continuously.” The ex-Central Bank Governor did not hold back in criticizing the celebratory treatment often given to individuals who have misused public trust for personal enrichment. Instead of facing consequences, these individuals are celebrated, decorated, and given further chances to exploit the system. “There is no collective shame anymore for public officials who enrich themselves illegitimately,” he said. “Instead of being held accountable, they are gifted with further positions in government—more opportunities to steal. This has become Nigeria’s sad reality.” Sanusi further argued that many of today’s political elites lack the foundational upbringing or ethical grounding required for true public service. Their goal, he claims, is not to serve the people but to profit personally. “Public office is now seen as a gateway to wealth,” he stated. “But the truth is, public service should never be a money-making venture.” He continued his critique by highlighting how many in leadership are more interested in their material possessions and social status than building a credible legacy. “Our leaders have no intrinsic values. They neither inherited a good name nor are they interested in leaving one behind,” Sanusi said. “Their identity is tied to how many mansions they own, how many jets they fly, or how many billions sit in their bank accounts. That is their self-worth.” Sanusi concluded with a sharp rebuke of such mindsets, arguing that these individuals are unconcerned with public perception—even if the people see them as corrupt or criminal. “It doesn’t bother them that the public sees thieves when they look at them. They don’t care that their legacy is theft and greed. To them, moral values are irrelevant,” he lamented.
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The Emir of Kano, Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, has called for peace and urged residents to respect the law, emphasizing the need for unity and stability in the state. Speaking during a special Iftar gathering at his palace, Emir Sanusi strongly condemned individuals opposing his reinstatement, asserting that those inciting disturbances in Kano would face dire consequences. “This matter is beyond human intervention; it is the will of God. Those resisting divine authority will never succeed. May fire consume anyone plotting to destabilize Kano. Let us remain patient and prayerful, for God supports the just,” he declared. The traditional ruler further urged the people to remain peaceful, emphasizing that divine judgment would ultimately prevail. Ongoing Kano Emirship Dispute The controversy surrounding the Kano emirship continues to generate tension, following a directive from Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf for all emirate councils to begin preparations for the upcoming Sallah Durbar celebrations. Meanwhile, the deposed Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado Bayero, has reportedly informed security agencies of his intention to hold a Durbar event marking his fifth year as a ruler, despite his removal. According to a LMSINT MEDIA report, the power struggle over the emirship has persisted for several months, leading to increased political and traditional tensions in the state. As the situation unfolds, stakeholders continue to monitor developments, urging all parties to prioritize peace and stability in Kano. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
