- Presidency: Stop “Playing Politics”
- Bala Mohammed: Northern govs Not Happy
By Abiola Olawale
The Presidency has strongly criticized Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State for his comments against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, particularly concerning the proposed tax reform bills.
This latest development has triggered an exchange of words between the Presidency and Governor Bala Mohammed.
The New Diplomat reports that the criticism arose after Mohammed suggested that northern Nigeria would “show its true colours” if the tax reforms, which he described as “anti-north,” were implemented.
Reacting, the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Communications, Sunday Dare, labelled Governor Mohammed’s remarks as “inflammatory rhetoric” and “direct threats toward the federal government.”
Dare emphasized that Mohammed’s statements were unbecoming of a state governor and did not reflect the constructive dialogue needed between states and the Federal Government.
He urged Mohammed to retract his comments and focus on a productive dialogue regarding any concerns about the Tax Reform Act.
He said President Bola Tinubu’s administration is focused on issues of development and how to improve the overall well-being of Nigerians.
He stated: “The focus of this government is on how to build stronger collaborations with sub-nationals and other critical stakeholders on matters that affect the lives of Nigerians.
“How well are the people of his state who still rank as most impoverished among Nigerians fairing under his leadership? How well has he, as Governor, used the increased resources at his disposal to improve the quality of life of his people?
”Constant blustering and playing irresponsible politics will not relieve him of his duty to the people of Bauchi State his leadership has impoverished.”
The New Diplomat reports that the tax reform bills aimed at overhauling Nigeria’s tax system, have sparked significant debate, particularly over the proposed changes to the Value Added Tax (VAT) distribution model.
The opposition primarily stems from concerns over the distribution of Value Added Tax (VAT) under the new proposals, which Northern governors argue would disproportionately benefit certain states, particularly Lagos, at the expense of others, especially in the North.
Northern leaders including Bala Mohammed have expressed worries that the reforms could undermine the region’s economic stability, potentially impacting salary payments and exacerbating issues like poverty and insecurity.
The northern governors had also maintained that these proposed bills to be withdrawn from the National Assembly for further consultation.
