The Nigerian presidency has urged Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State to focus on addressing developmental and poverty challenges in his state rather than making inflammatory statements against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the federal government.
In a statement issued on Monday, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication, Sunday Dare, criticized the governor’s recent remarks on the federal government’s Tax Reform Bills.
Mohammed had described the reforms as biased against northern Nigeria and warned that they could threaten national unity.
The presidency labeled the governor’s statements as divisive and unbefitting of his position, emphasizing that leadership demands collaboration and sensitivity to the needs of all citizens.
Dare noted that Bauchi State has received substantial federal allocations, including N144 billion in disbursements and a special N2 billion intervention for food security, but still faces significant poverty and developmental issues.
“The rhetoric from Governor Bala Mohammed is concerning and does not reflect the position of northern Nigeria,” the presidency stated.
“Rather than issuing threats, the governor should focus on utilizing the increased federal resources to address the pressing challenges in his state.”
The presidency also outlined the benefits of the Tax Reform Act, highlighting its potential to streamline taxation, boost revenue collection efficiency, support agricultural businesses, and attract investments.
It encouraged the governor to adopt transparent fiscal practices and develop initiatives that align with these reforms to benefit his state.
Finally, the presidency called for unity among public officials, stressing the importance of collaborative governance to address the nation’s challenges.
“Nigeria’s progress depends on dialogue, efficient resource management, and collective action, not divisive rhetoric or political grandstanding,” the statement concluded.
