The Presidency has called on Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, to retract what it described as an “inflammatory” statement concerning President Bola Tinubu’s Tax Reform Bill.
The governor had warned, “We’ll show Tinubu our true colour,” during a Christmas gathering in Bauchi on December 25, 2024.
Governor Mohammed criticized the tax reforms as being biased against northern states, labeling them “anti-northern.” He argued that the policies could harm the region’s economy and threaten national unity.
His comments sparked concerns, prompting a response from Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Media and Public Communication, Sunday Dare, who labeled the remarks as divisive and unproductive.
According to Dare, “I urge him to retract these confrontational remarks and redirect his focus toward productive dialogue with the FG regarding any concerns about the Tax Reform Act.”
“This unfortunate statement does not represent the collective voice of Northern Nigeria. The North, like other regions, seeks collaborative governance and constructive engagement with the Federal Government to address our nation’s challenges.
“Rather than issuing threats, his energy might be better directed toward implementing effective poverty alleviation programmes and ensuring transparent utilisation of these federal resources [N144bn received from FG]. The Tax Reform Act and increased federal allocations significantly benefit the States.”
“His statement ‘We will show President Tinubu our true colour’ is particularly concerning and does not reflect the constructive dialogue needed between the state and FG.
“It bears noting that Bauchi State has received N144bn (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. As a state governor, he is called to exemplify statesmanship and work toward national cohesion,” Dare opined.
