Days after the Bauchi State Governor and Chairman of PDP Governors Forum, Bala Mohammed made incendiary remarks against the administration of President Bola Tinubu regarding its tax reform agenda, the presidency has hit back at the governor berating him for issuing direct threats to the federal government over policy issues that require constructive engagements instead.
The Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communications, Sunday Dare on Monday published a rejoinder on his official X handle on behalf of the presidency.
Mr. Dare wrote, “the recent inflammatory rhetoric of Governor Bala Mohammed regarding the Tax Reform Act and direct threats toward the Federal Government are unbecoming of his office as a state governor. His statement “We will show President Tinubu our true color” is particularly concerning and does not reflect the constructive dialogue needed between state and FG.”
The presidential spokesperson went on to say that Gov. Bala Mohammed instead of issuing threats to the FG should redirect his energy on how to make the most out of the N144 billion Bauchi State has received as FAAC allocations under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
“It bears noting that Bauchi State has received N144 billion (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. Rather than issuing threats, his energy might be better directed toward implementing effective poverty alleviation programs and ensuring transparent utilization of these federal resources”, he said.
“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.
“As a state governor, he is called to exemplify statesmanship and work toward national cohesion. 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 (bills).”
Sunday Dare went further to list the significant benefits the increased FAAC allocations and tax reforms will offer to the states.
On Federal Allocation Benefits, Dare stated as follows:
1. The N144 billion allocation represents one of the highest increases in federal disbursements to states, providing Bauchi with unprecedented fiscal resources.
2. This includes the recent N2 billion special intervention fund given to each state for food security.
3. The removal of fuel subsidy compensation payments have boosted state revenues.
4. Special consideration for derivation funds protecting northern states’ interests.
On the potential benefits of the Tax Reforms, the presidential spokesman listed the following:
1. Streamlining of multiple taxation systems that currently burden small businesses in Bauchi.
2. Enhanced revenue collection efficiency through digitalization.
3. Protection of informal sector workers who form the backbone of Bauchi’s economy.
4. Special provisions for agricultural businesses, which is crucial for Bauchi’s farming communities
Development Opportunities:
1. The reforms create frameworks for attracting investments through tax incentives
2. Capacity building for state revenue services
Mr. Dare further noted that these initiatives demonstrate the federal government’s commitment to supporting state development and advised that rather than antagonizing these efforts, the Bauchi State Governor could leverage on these resources by:
– Implementing transparent fiscal management systems
– Developing state-specific tax incentives to attract investments
– Investing in agricultural value chains
He said that Nigeria’s journey toward prosperity demands unity of purpose, not divisive rhetoric.
“At this critical juncture in our national development, public officials must rise above regional sentiments and political grandstanding to embrace the collective vision of a stronger, more prosperous nation. The challenges we face – from poverty to security, from 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 prioritizes the collective good over individual or regional interests”, Sunday Dare stated.