Emir Sanusi Speaks Out Against Exorbitant Food Prices in Nigeria

Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, has criticized the severe economic hardship in Nigeria under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

Speaking at the Kano Government House on Thursday, where free fertilizer was being distributed to 52,800 farmers across Kano State’s 44 local government areas, Sanusi described the current economic situation as “unbearable.”

He noted that people are now forced to buy smaller quantities of food due to soaring prices, calling the situation dire.

The former Central Bank governor suggested that initiatives like the fertilizer distribution could provide some relief to farmers amidst the economic struggles.

Sanusi’s comments on escalating food prices come as nationwide protests are planned for August in response to the worsening economic conditions since President Tinubu took office.

Although economic challenges existed before Tinubu’s presidency, his policies—such as removing the fuel subsidy and floating the naira—have exacerbated the situation.

Petrol prices have surged from N145 to N710 per litre, and the naira has depreciated to about N1,500 to the dollar.

While economic experts and the International Monetary Fund have commended these measures as bold reforms, they have led to a sharp rise in food prices, prompting protests in states including Niger, Osun, Ibadan, and Lagos.