In a revealing memoir titled "Working with Buhari: Reflections of a Special Adviser, Media and Publicity (2015 – 2023)," former President Buhari clarifies why he chose not to dismiss Godwin Emefiele, the former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, amidst speculations about Emefiele's presidential ambitions. The memoir, presented by ex-Special Adviser Femi Adesina in Abuja, sheds light on the President's defense of the Naira redesign policy, implemented by Emefiele, citing its role in ensuring a clean general election in 2023.
Buhari, as highlighted in the 12th chapter of the memoir, emphasizes the importance of fairness and evidence before taking action, stating that unjustly punishing someone can have lasting consequences. He affirms that the decision not to remove Emefiele was based on the absence of firm evidence against him and a commitment to uphold justice.
The former President discloses that he refrained from questioning Emefiele about the rumored presidential campaign for 2023, as Emefiele never discussed it with him. Buhari underlines the significance of clear conscience and fairness in leadership, expressing his awareness of the impact of his decisions on the morale of those serving with him.
The memoir unveils Buhari's perspective on the naira redesign policy, contending that those critical of it were individuals with excess wealth. He defends his stance on not judging people by his standards and recounts instances where substantial amounts of money were discovered amid claims of currency unavailability.
Buhari concludes, "I want to continue to conduct myself with a clear conscience, so that when I go to bed, I sleep off immediately," encapsulating his commitment to principled leadership.
