The Presidency has strongly criticized Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed’s recent comments, where he stated, “We will show President Tinubu our true colour,” calling the remarks a display of poor statesmanship that undermines efforts to promote national unity.
Special Adviser to the President on Media and Communications, Sunday Dare, who reacted to Governor Mohammed’s comments on the Federal Government’s Tax Reform Bills said, on his verified X handle on Monday, that the governor’s rhetoric were “divisive” and “unbecoming of a state’s leader.”
“This kind of rhetoric is divisive and undermines the collaborative spirit needed between state governments and the Federal Government to address the pressing challenges facing our nation,” Dare stated.
The Presidency highlighted Bauchi State’s significant financial benefits under President Tinubu’s administration, including N144 billion in federal allocations—the highest in the state’s history.
These funds include allocations for local governments and a special N2 billion intervention aimed at enhancing food security.
“It is worth noting that Bauchi State has been a key beneficiary of federal allocations, yet the state continues to struggle with poverty and underdevelopment.
“Instead of issuing threats, the governor should focus on using these resources to improve the lives of his people”, Dare said.
Dare further outlined the advantages of the Tax Reform Act, emphasizing its potential to reduce the burden on small businesses, boost agricultural productivity, and streamline tax collection processes.
“The Tax Reform Act includes provisions that directly benefit states like Bauchi, particularly its small business owners and farming communities. Governor Mohammed should embrace these reforms and leverage them to drive economic growth”, he said.
The Presidency called on Governor Mohammed to retract his statement and engage constructively with the Federal Government to address any concerns.
“At this critical moment in Nigeria’s development, leaders must demonstrate unity and a commitment to the collective good. Statements like these are not just unhelpful; they erode the trust and collaboration needed to move the nation forward”, he said.
The Presidency stressed the importance of dialogue, transparency, and the effective use of federal resources in achieving national progress, urging political leaders to prioritize national cohesion over divisive rhetoric to ensure collective growth and development.
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