Bala Mohammed Denies Threatening President Tinubu

Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed dismisses allegations of threatening President Tinubu, calls for clarification amid political speculations.

Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, has denied allegations that he made threats against President Bola Tinubu.

He explained that his comments were a critique of policies he feels might negatively impact Nigerians.

It has been reported that the governor responded after the Presidency issued a statement, calling on him to withdraw his alleged “threat” towards the President concerning the contentious tax reform bills.

The Presidency addressed the Bauchi governor’s remark, “We will show President Tinubu our true colour,” characterizing it as unstatesmanlike and detrimental to national unity.

Governor Mohammed previously criticized the tax reforms implemented by Tinubu’s administration, stating that they are unjust to northern Nigeria.

During a Christmas tribute to the Christian community at the Government House in Bauchi last weekend, Mohammed remarked, “Neglecting people’s grievances invites chaos. These reforms are detrimental to northern Nigeria. It’s unreasonable to expect us to pay salaries and construct roads while our revenue sources are being stripped away. This situation is intolerable.”

In a press release titled “Re: Presidency’s Misleading Statement on Governor Bala Mohammed’s Remarks on Tax Reforms,” signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mukhtar Gidado, the Governor clarified that his remarks had been clearly misunderstood.

The statement clarified that Mohammed’s comments were intended as a precaution, focusing on making sure the proposed tax reforms are fair, inclusive, and mindful of Nigeria’s socio-economic challenges.

The statement described interpreting Governor Bala Mohammed’s sincere warning about the risks of implementing unfavorable policies as a threat to the Presidency as mischievous.

The Governor holds the Presidency in high regard and would never resort to threats or hostile actions.

The statement went on to clarify that the governor has consistently prioritized fostering dialogue and advocating for policies designed to protect ordinary Nigerians, especially those in economically disadvantaged areas.

It further highlighted that Mohammed’s concerns reflect those of several APC governors who have likewise voiced criticism against the reforms.

The Bauchi State Government thus urged the Presidency to welcome constructive criticism instead of dismissing it as opposition.

We encourage the Federal Government to focus on dialogue and inclusivity rather than engaging in selective criticism or divisive rhetoric.

Governor Bala Mohammed continues to be dedicated to working with the Presidency to tackle national challenges and promote Nigeria’s overall growth and development.