Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed has refuted claims that he threatened President Bola Tinubu.
He clarified that his remarks were a critique of policies he believes could harm Nigerians.
Gatekeeper reports that the governor’s response followed a statement from the Presidency, which urged him to retract his purported “threat” to the President over the controversial tax reform bills.
The Presidency was referring to the Bauchi governor’s comment – “We will show President Tinubu our true colour” – describing it as unstatesmanlike and counterproductive to national unity.
Governor Mohammed had earlier condemned the tax reforms introduced by Tinubu’s administration, saying they are unfair to northern Nigeria.
While addressing the Christian community during a Christmas homage at the Government House in Bauchi last weekend, Mohammed said, “If you ignore the cries of the people, you are inviting anarchy. These reforms are not helping northern Nigeria. How do you expect us to pay salaries and build roads when you are taking away our revenue sources? This is unacceptable.”
In a press statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mukhtar Gidado, titled ‘Re: Presidency’s Misleading Statement on Governor Bala Mohammed’s Remarks on Tax Reforms’, the Governor said his comments were clearly misunderstood.
The statement explained that Mohammed’s remarks were cautionary, aimed at ensuring the proposed tax reforms are fair, inclusive and considerate of Nigeria’s socio-economic challenges.
“It is mischievous to take Governor Bala Mohammed’s honest advice about the dangers of implementing unfavorable policies as a threat to the Presidency,” the statement read.
The Governor deeply respects the institution of the Presidency and would never engage in threats or hostility.”
The statement further clarified that the governor’s focus has always been on fostering dialogue and advocating for policies that protect ordinary Nigerians, particularly those in economically disadvantaged regions.
It also noted that Mohammed’s concerns align with those of some APC governors who have similarly criticized the reforms.
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