The Royal Call to Integrity: Emir of Kano Blames Politicians for Erosion of Values
At the 2024 Annual Conference of the Nkata Ndi Inyom Igbo (NNII) in Abuja, Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, attributed the decline in societal values to the actions of Nigerian politicians.
He emphasized that integrity should be the top priority for leaders, urging them to put character above material wealth.
According to the Emir, a person’s true identity is not defined by their title, wealth, or possessions, but by their character, integrity, and actions.
“What you are, as an individual, is not determined by your position or wealth. It’s what you are that matters. If you’re a senator, emir, or governor, it doesn’t define you. It’s the person you are, not the position you hold,” he said.
“Two senators with different personalities can exist, with one being honest, kind, and generous, and the other a thief, a liar, or cruel. But, ultimately, it’s the man you are that counts.
“It doesn’t matter if you own a big house or an aeroplane; it’s the individual with integrity, honesty, and good character that truly matters. A poor man can be as much of a thief as a rich one,” he added.
Sanusi also stressed that public office is a privilege granted by God, serving as a test of how leaders use their power to serve the people.
He believes that a true leader’s legacy should be their positive impact on society, not the material wealth they accumulate.
“God gives people opportunities to transform lives, but it’s a test to see how they use that power to help others. We should use this privilege to make a difference, not accumulate wealth,” Sanusi said.
“Leaders should ask themselves what they want to be remembered for. Is it the houses they’ll leave behind, the money hidden in foreign accounts, or the legacy of positive change they’ve brought to their community?” he posed.
“The choice is clear: a legacy of true value or a life of fleeting wealth. Leaders have the power to choose,” he concluded.
