The presidency on Monday, urged Governor Bala Mohammed to focus on resolving the developmental and poverty challenges in his state rather than issuing threats against President Bola Tinubu.
The presidency cautioned the Bauchi State Governor against making inflammatory statements against the government and President Tinubu and urged him to retract his words.
The Special Adviser to President Tinubu on Media and Public Communication, Sunday Dare, who gave the word of caution, said the statements coming from the Bauchi State Governor are unbecoming of his office and public status.
Naija News reports the position of the presidency comes as a direct response to an earlier statement by the Bauchi State Governor, who described the Tax Reform Bills introduced by President Bola Tinubu’s administration, as anti-North and a threat to the unity of Nigeria.
The Governor argued that President Tinubu‘s reforms seemed designed to benefit specific regions of the country while leaving the North at a disadvantage.
Mohammed urged the Federal Government to review its policies to ensure they reflect the interests of all Nigerians.
He warned that ignoring the cries of the people could lead to unrest, emphasising that leadership requires listening and sensitivity to the needs of the masses.
However, in response, the presidency described the Governor’s statement as unfortunate, adding that his submissions does not represent the position of the Northern region.
“The recent inflammatory rhetoric of Governor Bala Mohammed regarding the Tax Reform Act and direct threats toward the Federal Government are unbecoming of his office as a state governor. His statement “We will show President Tinubu our true color” is particularly concerning and does not reflect the constructive dialogue needed between state and FG.
It bears noting that Bauchi State has received N144 billion (State and LGA) in federal allocations under the current administration – a significant increase from previous disbursements. Yet his state continues to grapple with serious developmental challenges and high poverty rates. Rather than issuing threats, his energy might be better directed toward implementing effective poverty alleviation programs and ensuring transparent utilization of these federal resources.
