Former President Muhammadu Buhari has disclosed the reason behind his decision not to dismiss the former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Godwin Emefiele, amid speculations of Emefiele’s potential presidential run in 2023.
Buhari clarified that Emefiele never engaged in discussions about his presidential aspirations with him. These revelations, along with others, are detailed in a memoir titled “Working with Buhari: Reflections of a Special Adviser, Media and Publicity (2015 – 2023),” authored by Femi Adesina, the former Special Adviser to President Buhari on Media and Publicity. The book was unveiled in Abuja on Tuesday.
Buhari, as quoted in the memoir, explained his rationale, stating, “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.”
The former president emphasized the importance of fairness in his decision-making, expressing concern for the morale of those serving with him. He acknowledged the potential long-term impact of unjust actions on an individual’s life and underscored the need for evidence before taking punitive measures.
Buhari, known for his commitment to ethical leadership, 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.”
Addressing the issue of Emefiele’s speculated involvement in the 2023 presidential campaign, Buhari stated that he did not inquire about it because Emefiele had not disclosed any such plans. He asserted that if such information had been known, he would have taken appropriate action and transparently communicated the reasons to the nation.
This insight into Buhari’s decision-making process offers a glimpse into his commitment to fairness and integrity in leadership.
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