National
Tackle Your Poverty Problem, Not Tinubu Presidency Warns Northern Governor
By Benjamin Abioye
The presidency has urged Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed to focus on addressing poverty and development challenges in his state instead of issuing threats against President Bola Tinubu.
The call came following Mohammed’s critical remarks about Tinubu’s Tax Reform Bills, which he described as unfavorable to the North and a threat to national unity.
Governor Mohammed argued that the reforms seem to favor certain regions at the expense of the North. He urged the federal government to revise its policies to better represent the interests of all Nigerians, warning that failure to listen to public concerns could lead to unrest. “Leadership requires sensitivity and listening to the people,” Mohammed emphasized.
In a statement by Sunday Dare, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication, the presidency condemned Mohammed’s remarks as inflammatory and unbecoming of a state governor. Dare noted:
“Governor Bala Mohammed’s rhetoric regarding the Tax Reform Act and threats toward the federal government are inappropriate for someone in his position. His statement, ‘We will show President Tinubu our true color,’ is troubling and does not promote constructive dialogue between the state and federal governments.”
The presidency highlighted the significant federal allocations Bauchi State has received, amounting to ‘₦144 billion’, and criticized Mohammed’s inability to address pressing issues in his state, such as poverty and underdevelopment. “His energy would be better spent on poverty alleviation programs and ensuring transparent use of federal resources,” the statement added.
The presidency outlined the benefits of the tax reforms, which include:
Higher Federal Allocations: Bauchi State has received increased disbursements, including ₦2 billion for food security and funds from the removal of fuel subsidies.
Simplified Tax System: Streamlining multiple taxation methods to reduce burdens on small businesses.
Support for Agriculture: Special provisions aimed at boosting farming communities in the North.
Improved Revenue Collection: Digitalization to enhance efficiency in tax administration.
“These reforms offer opportunities for state governments to attract investments and develop local economies,” the presidency noted.
The presidency urged leaders to rise above political and regional divides to support the Tinubu administration’s efforts to improve the lives of Nigerians. It stressed that cooperation, not confrontation, is the way forward.
“Nigeria needs leadership that builds bridges and prioritizes collective progress over regional interests,” the statement concluded.
Finally, the presidency encouraged Governor Mohammed to engage in constructive dialogue, emphasizing, “The path forward lies not in threats, but in collaboration and unified action.”
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