The Presidency on Friday criticized Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, accusing him of engaging in “irresponsible politics” over the Tax Reforms Bill.
It urged the governor to focus on addressing the challenges in his state rather than attacking President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
In a statement signed by the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication, Sunday Dare, the Presidency responded to recent comments by Mohammed, who alleged that the President’s economic policies were causing hardship, particularly in Northern Nigeria.
“It is true that we are not on good terms with him [President Tinubu] because our brothers and sisters are suffering. Even we, the governors, are suffering. Aside from his policies, he does not listen to us,” Mohammed had said earlier this week while meeting with Sheikh Sani Jingir, National Chairman of the Council of Ulama Jama’atu Izalatul Bid’ah Wa’Ikamatis Sunnah.
Governor Mohammed expressed frustration over what he described as the President’s failure to address economic hardship, claiming the North was disproportionately affected by recent federal tax reforms.
Responding, Dare accused the governor of attempting to “burnish his vanishing image” by attacking the President.
“Governor Bala should focus on governance and stop using President Tinubu as a scapegoat. He is playing irresponsible politics instead of addressing the pressing issues in Bauchi State. Ambition is made of sterner stuff,” Dare said.
He emphasized that the Tinubu administration is committed to revitalizing the economy and improving the lives of Nigerians.
“President Tinubu has a four-year mandate to deliver on his promises. Nigerians are already seeing the real impact of the reforms, and the outcomes will continue to improve in the coming weeks and months,” he added.
Dare also highlighted the administration’s commitment to collaboration with sub-national governments and other stakeholders, noting that such partnerships are key to addressing the nation’s challenges.
On the controversial Tax Reforms Bill, Dare said, “Anyone with strong concerns about the matter should take advantage of the legislative process. Attempts to derail or undermine this democratic process are undemocratic and self-serving.”
The Presidency also challenged Mohammed to demonstrate how his leadership has benefited Bauchi State, which it described as one of the most impoverished regions in the country.
“How well are the people of Bauchi State faring under his leadership? How has he utilized the increased resources at his disposal to improve the lives of his citizens?” the statement queried.
Dare concluded by urging the governor to prioritize his responsibilities to Bauchi residents. “Just as President Tinubu has a duty to all Nigerians, Governor Bala has an even greater duty to the people of his state. Constant blustering and playing politics will not relieve him of that duty,” he said.
The Presidency reaffirmed Tinubu’s commitment to inclusive leadership, describing him as a “listening leader” who respects democratic institutions.
