Enterprise chief and founding father of Stanbic IBTC Financial institution, Atedo Peterside, has warned Nigerians to not flip the current police invitation of Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II into an ethnic situation.

His feedback got here after a extensively shared article titled “A Warning to the Yoruba-Led Federal Authorities,” written by Chuks Emeka, went viral on social media. The article strongly criticised the federal authorities for not talking out after the police invited Emir Sanusi for questioning. It was additionally shared by former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, on his social media web page.

Peterside mentioned the article raised essential factors about how federal establishments just like the police shouldn’t be used for political functions. Nevertheless, he additionally warned that the author’s use of ethnic language was harmful.

“I feel Chuks ought to have written as a ‘Involved Nigerian.’ The truth that he’s Igbo doesn’t matter,” Peterside wrote on his X (previously Twitter) account.
“His message is essential, however bringing ethnicity into it doesn’t assist.”

Background of the Controversy

The Nigeria Police Power had invited Emir Sanusi to Abuja over experiences of violence throughout Eid celebrations in Kano State.

However after public criticism and recommendation from revered leaders, the police canceled the invitation. They mentioned Sanusi’s assertion would as a substitute be taken in Kano.

The scenario has sparked debate throughout the nation. Many Nigerians are apprehensive in regards to the politicisation of conventional management, the function of federal businesses, and the rising ethnic tensions in nationwide discussions.

In his article, Emeka accused the federal authorities—led by President Bola Tinubu—of being silent in regards to the situation. He mentioned the scenario was extra than simply about Sanusi.

“This isn’t nearly one man. It’s an assault on intelligence, braveness, and the concept a conventional chief can communicate the reality,” Emeka wrote.
“And that is occurring underneath a Yoruba-led presidency—a authorities many individuals supported, hoping for nationwide unity and competence.”

Political Reactions and Warning In opposition to Division

El-Rufai’s choice to share the article has added to speak that he could also be working with opposition figures to problem the ruling get together within the 2027 common elections. His involvement has drawn extra consideration to the political and ethnic tensions across the Sanusi situation.

Peterside careworn that Nigerians have to be cautious to not enable politics to divide them alongside ethnic strains.

“The way in which to be higher than these we criticise is to refuse to show every little thing right into a combat between ethnic teams,” he mentioned.

Emeka, in his closing remarks, additionally made a wider level:

“This isn’t nearly Sanusi’s title. It’s about how we cope with energy, tradition, and conscience in Nigeria,” he wrote.

As public discussions proceed, many are calling on the federal authorities to behave pretty, defend conventional establishments, and keep away from any actions that might worsen ethnic divisions within the nation.