By Amos Tauna
Following controversies surrounding recent statements made by the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi ll, a Non-Governmental Organization, National Tranquility Movement, NTM, has observed that the issues raised should be discussed rather than the person himself.
Addressing newsmen Saturday in Kaduna, Northern Nigeria on issues raised by a cross section of people following the Emir of Kano’s recent statements, the founder of National Tranquility Movement, Alhaji Mohammed Ibrahim Gashah, enjoined Nigerians to look at what was causing conflict rather than the prrson on the other side of the conflict.
He observed, “If we as Nigerians are going to bring our country out from the problems we are facing today, we need to look at how to harness our best minds and hearts and talents to bring about change.
“If we feel that Emir Sanusi is not honoring the Emirate by his utterances, let us look not only at the uttrrances, but let us also look at what role the Emirate can play in today’s world, a world of the young, the Emmanuel Macrons, the people who see the world in a new way.
“Nigeria is our country and we can lose our way by focusing on what is in the past instead of embracing the future. I have not spoken to Emir Sanusi in many years but l believe that he has always had the interest of Nigeria at heart.”
He explained that Emirs have been expected to be largely ceremonial leaders. “They are seen at auspicious occasions where it is mainly their presence that is noted, and seen as a sign of support,
“What type of father is it that will allow his children to be cheated, brutalized, degraded, demoralized, and will sit on his throne and be silent?” he asked.
Alhaji Gashah observed that the notion of Emirs has been largely that, they should be seen as ceremonial leaders, stressing, “As a famous philosopher said, not to act is to act.”
He enjoined those who are threatened by the Emir’s utterances to see how they can improve the country by pointing to the Emir where he has mistakes with a view of correcting each others for a better tomorrow.
He opined, “If he has made mistakes, they can be pointed out to him. If his reasoning is wrong, someone can show him where and how it is wrong. If it is correct and he is making valid points, wisdom mandates that what he says be considered with a calm and inquiring mind and spirit.”
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