Former President Goodluck Jonathan elicited laughter on Tuesday while addressing guests at the launch of former military leader Yakubu Gowon’s autobiography, My Life of Duty and Allegiance.
Speaking as chairman at the event, Jonathan referred to the 16th Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, as “my good friend,” a remark that immediately had the audience in stitches, forcing him to pause briefly.
The lighthearted moment is notable given the duo’s history. Jonathan and Sanusi famously clashed during Sanusi’s tenure as Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor. In 2014, Sanusi alleged before the Senate Committee on Finance that the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) had failed to remit approximately $20 billion to the federation account—a claim that stirred national controversy.
Jonathan later suspended Sanusi over alleged financial misconduct. Months afterward, Sanusi was appointed Emir of Kano under then-Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso’s administration.
Tuesday’s humorous exchange shows that even former rivals can share a laugh years after political tensions.
