Former Senator Shehu Sani has come to the defense of President Bola Tinubu, urging critics to look beyond the current administration for solutions to Nigeria's systemic challenges. Sani emphasized that the country's problems, particularly in the North, are decades-old and cannot be solely attributed to Tinubu's government ¹.
Sani's Perspective on Northern Nigeria's Challenges
Sani pointed out that the North's poverty, insecurity, and crumbling infrastructure are a result of failed leadership by past regional leaders. He noted that iconic regional industries like KTL, UNTL, and Arewa Textiles collapsed under previous administrations, prioritizing personal enrichment over public welfare ¹.
Critique of Past Leaders
Sani warned against returning former leaders to office, stating that if they couldn't solve these issues before, they won't do so now. He emphasized the need for accountability among past regional leaders amid escalating debates over responsibility for systemic challenges in the country ¹.
Sani's Previous Reactions to Tinubu's Policies
Sani has previously expressed support for some of Tinubu's policies, such as tax reform. He believes the reform could create a paradigm shift from the outdated tax system to a more robust way of generating revenue. However, not everyone shares his view, with some critics arguing that the reforms are ill-timed given the current economic crisis ².
Conclusion
Sani's defense of Tinubu highlights the complexities of Nigerian politics, where historical grievances often intersect with contemporary governance challenges. As the country grapples with widespread insecurity, economic stagnation, and poverty, Sani's call for accountability and innovative solutions offers a nuanced perspective on the way forward ¹.
