- Says I Cannot Be Threatened
- Urges FG To Embrace Constructive Criticism
The row between the Presidency and Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed over the latter’s comment on the contentious tax reform bills is showing no sign of abating any moment soon.
The Matrix had earlier reported that Governor Mohammed had stoked the fire of controversies when he condemned the tax reforms introduced by Tinubu’s administration, saying they are unfair to northern Nigeria.
While addressing the Christian community during a Christmas homage at the Government House in Bauchi last weekend, Mohammed said, “If you ignore the cries of the people, you are inviting anarchy. 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.”
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He further claimed that the bills amounted to “calls for anarchy” and warned that Tinubu would see “our real colour” if the legislations were passed.
Responding, the presidency asked the governor to withdraw his comment, describing it as “inflammatory rhetoric” and “direct threats toward the federal government”.
Sunday Dare, the president’s Special Adviser on Media and Public Communication in a statement said the governor’s comments were “particularly concerning and does not reflect the constructive dialogue needed between state and FG”.
Refusing to back down, Bala Mohammed affirmed that he stands by his comment and won’t be threatened.
“I stand by my comment. I cannot be threatened,” Mohammed said on Channels Television’s 2024 Year-End Review programme.
The chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party Governors’ Forum warned that the Presidency should not be arrogant but listen to the people, stressing that the proposed tax bills, if passed, would threaten the survival of the sub-nationals.
READ ALSO: Presidency Bombs Mohammed Over Tax Reform Comments, Says It’s Inflammatory, Threatening
Earlier, the governor in a press statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mukhtar Gidado, titled ‘Re: Presidency’s Misleading Statement on Governor Bala Mohammed’s Remarks on Tax Reforms’, said his comments were clearly misunderstood.
He clarified that his remarks were a critique of policies he believes could harm Nigerians.
The statement explained that Mohammed’s remarks were cautionary, aimed at ensuring the proposed tax reforms are fair, inclusive and considerate of Nigeria’s socio-economic challenges.
“It is mischievous to take Governor Bala Mohammed’s honest advice about the dangers of implementing unfavorable policies as a threat to the Presidency,” the statement read.
“The Governor deeply respects the institution of the Presidency and would never engage in threats or hostility.”
The statement further clarified that the governor’s focus has always been on fostering dialogue and advocating for policies that protect ordinary Nigerians, particularly those in economically disadvantaged regions.
It also noted that Mohammed’s concerns align with those of some APC governors who have similarly criticized the reforms.
The Bauchi State Government therefore called on the Presidency to embrace constructive criticism rather than dismiss it as opposition.
“We urge the Federal Government to prioritize dialogue and inclusivity over selective criticism and divisive rhetoric.
“Governor Bala Mohammed remains committed to collaborating with the Presidency to address national challenges and ensure Nigeria’s overall growth and development.”
