Former President Muhammadu Buhari has shed light on the reasons behind his decision not to remove the former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Godwin Emefiele, despite speculations about Emefiele’s potential run for the presidency in 2023.
This revelation comes from Buhari himself, as detailed in the memoir “Working with Buhari: Reflections of a Special Adviser, Media and Publicity (2015 – 2023),” authored by the former Special Adviser to President Buhari on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina.
The memoir, presented in Abuja on Tuesday, unveils Buhari’s thought process during a crucial period when Emefiele’s political aspirations were rumored.
Buhari emphasized that the key factor influencing his decision was the fact that Emefiele never engaged him in discussions about his presidential ambitions.
“I met Emefiele in office when I came, and unless there was firm evidence against him, it would be unfair and an act of injustice to remove him, acting on hearsay,” Buhari asserted in the book.
This statement underscores Buhari’s commitment to fair and just governance, rooted in evidence rather than speculation.
Buhari, known for his emphasis on moral and ethical leadership, articulated his belief in the importance of ensuring justice and avoiding unjust actions that could have lasting consequences for an individual.
He remarked, “If you punish a man unjustly, it could dog his footsteps throughout life, so if you would punish, you must have evidence and you should know that yourself wouldn’t be there forever. You would leave one day.”
The former President also expressed his acute awareness of the impact such decisions could have on the morale of those serving in his administration.
Buhari acknowledged the transient nature of leadership and highlighted the need for fairness, not only during his tenure but also for the benefit of those who would follow in his footsteps.
Addressing Emefiele’s rumored involvement in the 2023 presidential campaign, Buhari revealed his approach to the situation.
“When he was linked with the campaign for the 2023 presidency, I did not ask him because he told nobody he was getting involved. Otherwise, I would have removed him and told the nation why,” Buhari stated, showcasing his commitment to transparency and accountability in governance.
The memoir provides a rare glimpse into the decision-making processes of a leader who prioritizes fairness, evidence-based actions, and a sense of responsibility to both the individuals serving under him and the nation at large.
Buhari’s reflections, as shared in the book, offer valuable insights into the complexities of leadership and the principles that guided his tenure as President of Nigeria.
