The 14th Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, emphasized that actions driven by greed, selfishness, and envy are more egregious sins than those traditionally deemed taboo, such as unlawful sex, homosexuality, and gambling.
Delivering a Ramadan lecture virtually on Sunday, April 7, the former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) expressed concern about the behavior of politicians who profess religious beliefs yet engage in corrupt practices, looting public funds while in office.
Sanusi highlighted the contradiction between outward displays of religious devotion and the unethical conduct of some leaders, citing instances where politicians in positions of authority have embezzled funds intended for public welfare to enrich themselves and their families.
He questioned the integrity of individuals who, despite professing adherence to Sharia law and claiming to uphold religious principles, engage in corrupt acts, betraying the trust placed in them by the public. Sanusi criticized the hypocrisy of leaders who prioritize personal gain over the well-being of their constituents, leaving their states devoid of essential services and infrastructure.
The emir stressed the importance of internal virtues over outward displays of religiosity, asserting that sins of the heart, such as greed, selfishness, and envy, carry greater moral weight than sins of the body. He lamented the prevalence of social disorder stemming from moral corruption and emphasized the need for individuals to cultivate purity of heart, genuine concern for humanity, and accountability to Allah.
Sanusi urged a shift in focus from superficial acts of worship to inner spiritual transformation, highlighting the significance of sincerity, compassion, and consciousness of divine accountability in the pursuit of righteousness. He emphasized that true adherence to religious principles entails prioritizing the purification of the heart and aligning one’s actions with the values of justice, integrity, and compassion.
