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Business leader and founder of Stanbic IBTC Bank, Atedo Peterside, has warned Nigerians not to turn the recent police invitation of Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II into an ethnic issue.
His comments came after a widely shared article titled “A Warning to the Yoruba-Led Federal Government,” written by Chuks Emeka, went viral on social media. The article strongly criticised the federal government for not speaking out after the police invited Emir Sanusi for questioning. It was also shared by former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, on his social media page.
Peterside said the article raised important points about how federal institutions like the police should not be used for political purposes. However, he also warned that the writer’s use of ethnic language was dangerous.
“I think Chuks should have written as a ‘Concerned Nigerian.’ The fact that he is Igbo doesn’t matter,” Peterside wrote on his X (formerly Twitter) account.
“His message is important, but bringing ethnicity into it doesn’t help.”
Background of the ControversyThe Nigeria Police Force had invited Emir Sanusi to Abuja over reports of violence during Eid celebrations in Kano State.
But after public criticism and advice from respected leaders, the police canceled the invitation. They said Sanusi’s statement would instead be taken in Kano.
The situation has sparked debate across the country. Many Nigerians are worried about the politicisation of traditional leadership, the role of federal agencies, and the rising ethnic tensions in national discussions.
In his article, Emeka accused the federal government—led by President Bola Tinubu—of being silent about the issue. He said the situation was more than just about Sanusi.
“This is not just about one man. It’s an attack on intelligence, courage, and the idea that a traditional leader can speak the truth,” Emeka wrote.
“And this is happening under a Yoruba-led presidency—a government many people supported, hoping for national unity and competence.”
Political Reactions and Caution Against DivisionEl-Rufai’s decision to share the article has added to talk that he may be working with opposition figures to challenge the ruling party in the 2027 general elections. His involvement has drawn more attention to the political and ethnic tensions around the Sanusi issue.
Peterside stressed that Nigerians must be careful not to allow politics to divide them along ethnic lines.
“The way to be better than those we criticise is to refuse to turn everything into a fight between ethnic groups,” he said.
Emeka, in his closing remarks, also made a wider point:
“This is not just about Sanusi’s title. It’s about how we deal with power, culture, and conscience in Nigeria,” he wrote.
As public discussions continue, many are calling on the federal government to act fairly, protect traditional institutions, and avoid any actions that could worsen ethnic divisions in the country.
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