Tax Reform Bills: Pull down your statement against Tinubu – Presidency knocks Bala Mohammed

The presidency has responded to Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State following his recent criticism of President Bola Tinubu’s administration over its proposed tax reform bill.

During a Christmas homage by the Christian community at the Bauchi Government House on December 25, 2024, Governor Mohammed described the reforms as “anti-northern,” accusing the Federal Government of favoring certain regions while neglecting the interests of the North. He warned that the northern region might be forced to “show its true colours” if the policies persisted.

In a statement posted on X on Monday, titled “RE: We’ll Show Tinubu Our True Colour,” President Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Media and Public Communication, Mr. Sunday Dare, dismissed Governor Mohammed’s remarks as unrepresentative of the North’s position. Dare emphasized the importance of constructive dialogue between the Federal Government and state governments, urging leaders to avoid inflammatory rhetoric that could deepen regional divides.

Dare said, “I urge him to retract these confrontational remarks and redirect his focus toward productive dialogue with the FG regarding any concerns about the Tax Reform Act.

“This unfortunate statement does not represent the collective voice of Northern Nigeria. The North, like other regions, seeks collaborative governance and constructive engagement with the Federal Government to address our nation’s challenges.

“Rather than issuing threats, his energy might be better directed toward implementing effective poverty alleviation programmes and ensuring transparent utilisation of these federal resources [N144bn received from FG]. The Tax Reform Act and increased federal allocations significantly benefit the States.”

The post also condemned Mohammed’s statememt, describing them as inappropriate for someone in his position as a state governor.

“His statement ‘We will show President Tinubu our true colour’ is particularly concerning and does not reflect the constructive dialogue needed between the state and FG,” Dare said.

“It bears noting that Bauchi State has received N144bn (State and LGA) in federal allocations under the current administration – a significant increase from previous disbursements.

“Yet his state continues to grapple with serious developmental challenges and high poverty rates. As a state governor, he is called to exemplify statesmanship and work toward national cohesion.”

Dare highlighted that the Tax Reform Act would simplify the complex taxation systems burdening small businesses in Bauchi, offering significant benefits to states.

He emphasised that Nigeria’s journey to prosperity demands unity of purpose, urging public officials to move beyond regional sentiments and political grandstanding to support the collective vision of a stronger, more prosperous nation.

“The challenges we face—poverty to security, economic growth to social development—transcend state boundaries and political affiliations. Indeed, all political leaders must remember that their primary obligation is to improve the lives of their citizens, which is best achieved through constructive dialogue, efficient resource management, and unwavering commitment to national unity.

“The path forward lies not in confrontation but in collaboration, not in threats but in thoughtful engagement, and certainly not in divisive statements but in unified action toward our shared goals of development and progress.

“This is the true leadership Nigeria needs – one that builds bridges, not barriers, and prioritises the collective good over individual or regional interests. Finally, this Hausa might soothe the political nerves of the Governor—“Gyara kayanka baya zama sauke mu raba”.