Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, has responded to claims made by the presidency, dismissing accusations that he threatened President Bola Tinubu.
The governor clarified that his earlier statements were intended as constructive criticism, not as a threat. He emphasized that his comments were meant to highlight the negative effects of the proposed tax reforms on Nigerians, particularly in Northern Nigeria.
The controversy began when the presidency issued a statement urging Governor Mohammed to retract his comments, which were seen as threatening.
Specifically, the presidency took issue with the governor’s remark, “We will show President Tinubu our true colour,” calling it unsportsmanlike and divisive.
However, Governor Mohammed defended his words, explaining that he was speaking out against the policies he believed could harm the people of Northern Nigeria.
“If you ignore the cries of the people, you are inviting anarchy,” he said at a Christmas event in Bauchi. He further explained, “These reforms are not helping Northern Nigeria. How do you expect us to pay salaries and build roads when you are taking away our revenue sources? This is unacceptable.”
In response to the presidency’s criticism, the governor issued a statement through his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mukhtar Gidado.
The statement, titled “Re: Presidency’s Misleading Statement on Governor Bala Mohammed’s Remarks on Tax Reforms,” clarified that the governor’s words were meant to serve as a caution about the potential dangers of unfair policies.
“It is mischievous to take Governor Bala Mohammed’s honest advice about the dangers of implementing unfavourable policies as a threat to the presidency,” the statement read.
Governor Mohammed reiterated his respect for the presidency and expressed his commitment to promoting dialogue and supporting policies that benefit all Nigerians, especially those in economically disadvantaged areas.
The statement also noted that some governors from the All Progressives Congress (APC) had similar concerns about the proposed tax reforms, further supporting the governor’s position.
Governor Mohammed urged the presidency to see his criticism as an opportunity for constructive feedback, not as an attack.
“We urge the Federal Government to prioritize dialogue and inclusivity over selective criticism and divisive rhetoric,” the statement concluded.
