The Presidency has condemned Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed for his recent statement, “We will show President Tinubu our true colour,” labeling it as lacking in statesmanship and counterproductive to fostering national unity.
Special Adviser on Media and Communications to the President, Sunday Dare in a post on his X handle @SundayDareSD said the governor’s remarks, made in response to the Federal Government’s Tax Reform Act, were unbecoming of a state 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,” he said.
He stated that under President Tinubu’s administration, Bauchi State has received a record N144 billion in federal allocations, which includes funding 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,” Dare said. “Instead of issuing threats, the governor should focus on using these resources to improve the lives of his people.”
Dare highlighted the benefits of the Tax Reform Act, stating that it aims to alleviate the burden on small businesses, boost agricultural productivity, and simplify tax collection processes.
“The Tax Reform Act includes provisions that directly benefit states like Bauchi, particularly its small business owners and farming communities,” he added.
“Governor Mohammed should embrace these reforms and leverage them to drive economic growth.”
The Presidential aide urged 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”, Dare said.
He stressed that progress can only be achieved through dialogue, transparency, and the effective use of federal resources, urging all political leaders to prioritise national cohesion over divisive rhetoric.
Text execpt headline courtesy Daily Sun
