“We’re Already in Crisis, Not Heading Towards One” Emir Sanusi Raises Alarm Over Nigeria’s Dire Situation

Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II has sounded the alarm, declaring that Nigeria is already engulfed in a deep crisis, not just nearing one.

His blunt warning on insecurity and economic collapse has ignited national debate, urging leaders and citizens alike to confront the harsh realities threatening the nation’s stability.

The Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, has issued a sobering warning to Nigerians, declaring that the country is no longer teetering on the edge of disaster it is already neck-deep in a full-scale crisis. His comments have stirred national conversation, further highlighting the gravity of the country’s security and economic challenges.

Sanusi made these remarks while speaking at the 60th birthday celebration of former Minister of Transportation and ex-Governor of Rivers State, Rotimi Amaechi, held in Port Harcourt on Saturday. Addressing the audience, Sanusi delivered a candid and powerful critique of Nigeria’s deteriorating conditions, urging Nigerians and policymakers alike to wake up to the reality they are already living in.

“For all those who are saying we have to be careful before we get into a crisis, please wake up. We are living with bandits and Boko Haram; we are already there,” Sanusi declared, making it clear that the country is not approaching a tipping point it has already passed it.

The former Central Bank Governor further stressed that the real question now is not how to prevent a crisis but how to begin the recovery process from one that has already taken root. “We are already in crisis, it has already happened. The question is how do we get out of it?” he asked, with a tone of urgency that resonated throughout the event.

Sanusi didn’t only point fingers at insecurity. He extended his criticism to Nigeria’s political and economic elites, accusing them of being dangerously disconnected from the everyday struggles of the common citizen. According to him, these leaders are failing to acknowledge, let alone address, the complex layers of poverty that have continued to deepen across the country.

“The problem is that the elite in this country do not even understand the depth of poverty in Nigeria. We are dealing with multi-dimensional poverty, and yet, many leaders live in denial,” Sanusi said. His statement touched a nerve in a nation where inflation has skyrocketed, jobs are scarce, and millions are pushed further into hardship daily.

The monarch’s comments come amid a wave of escalating insecurity with rampant banditry, kidnappings, and insurgency particularly in the northern regions and worsening economic challenges such as high inflation, stagnant wages, currency devaluation, and weakened purchasing power.

Sanusi’s frank assessment is not new, but the setting and timing of his speech have reignited public discourse. As a respected traditional ruler and former head of the nation’s apex financial institution, his voice carries weight, especially when addressing issues of national importance. His critique is a stark reminder that mere political rhetoric is no longer sufficient concrete, urgent action is needed.

His call to action was not just for the government but for all stakeholders in the Nigerian project civil society, religious leaders, private sector actors, and citizens to rally toward solutions that can reverse the current trajectory.

The Emir’s words have since sparked nationwide reflection and debate, with many Nigerians on social media and public forums echoing his sentiments and demanding accountability, reform, and inclusive governance.

In a time when hope feels dim for many Nigerians, Sanusi’s bold truth-telling may serve as a catalyst for honest national dialogue and, hopefully, much-needed change.