Mohammed Garba
The Presidency has called on Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, to retract his statement threatening President Bola Tinubu, saying it’s “particularly concerning” and doesn’t reflect the constructive dialogue needed between states and the Federal Government.
Governor Mohammed made the statement while opposing the Tax Reform Act, which is currently before the Senate. The Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communications, Sunday Dare, condemned the governor’s inflammatory rhetoric and direct threats toward the Federal Government, saying they’re unbecoming of his office.
Despite the Tinubu administration allocating N144 billion to Bauchi State, the state still faces serious developmental challenges and high poverty rates. Dare urged Governor Mohammed to focus on implementing effective poverty alleviation programs and ensuring transparent utilization of federal resources.
The presidential spokesman emphasized that Governor Mohammed’s statement doesn’t represent the collective voice of Northern Nigeria, which seeks collaborative governance and constructive engagement with the Federal Government.
Dare highlighted the significant benefits states will enjoy as a result of the Tax Reform Act, including: According to him, the state government will enjoy increased federal allocation under the new tax reforms bill. There will also be a streamlined taxation system, simplifying multiple taxation systems to reduce burdens on small businesses.
The tax reform bill will also enhance revenue collection efficiency, including the digitalization and protection of informal sector workers. The new tax regime will also provide special provisions for Agribusiness, supporting Bauchi’s farming communities.
Dare urged Governor Mohammed to retract his confrontational remarks and engage in productive dialogue with the Federal Government regarding the Tax Reform Act.
