The Presidency has called on Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, to withdraw what it described as divisive and inflammatory comments regarding the Federal Government’s Tax Reform Act.
Reacting to a statement made by Mohammed during a Christmas gathering in Bauchi on December 25, 2024, President Bola Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Media and Public Communications, Sunday Dare, criticized the governor’s remarks as unrepresentative of the Northern region’s stance.
Mohammed had alleged that the tax reforms were skewed against the North and warned that the region might be compelled to “show its true colours” if such policies persisted. He described the reforms as potentially harmful to national unity and urged the Federal Government to adopt more inclusive strategies.
In a post shared on Monday, Dare said, “The governor’s confrontational tone does not align with the collaborative spirit required to address national challenges. His comments neither reflect the collective views of the North nor contribute to the constructive dialogue needed between the states and the Federal Government.”
The Presidency emphasized that the Tax Reform Act is designed to promote equitable revenue distribution, reduce dependence on oil revenue, and enhance economic development nationwide. It urged state governments to focus on meaningful engagement rather than issuing threats.
“Instead of resorting to divisive rhetoric, Governor Mohammed should prioritize implementing poverty alleviation initiatives and ensuring the judicious use of federal allocations, including the N144 billion received by Bauchi State,” the statement added.
The Presidency called for calm, urging state leaders to engage in dialogue to resolve concerns about federal policies. Governor Mohammed is yet to respond to the Presidency’s demand for a retraction.
