The Presidency has criticized Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, accusing him of playing “irresponsible politics” with the ongoing debate on tax reform bills before the National Assembly.
Governor Mohammed, who also chairs the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors’ Forum, recently alleged that the bills disproportionately favor one region and warned of potential unrest if passed. His comments drew sharp rebuke from the Presidency, which labeled the remarks as inflammatory and undemocratic.
Presidential spokesperson Sunday Dare, in a statement on Friday, urged Governor Mohammed to focus on governance and alleviating poverty in Bauchi State instead of politicizing legislative processes.
“President Tinubu won an election and secured a national mandate from Nigerians and will not surrender that to satisfy the palate of pseudo activists or late-day crusaders. The focus of this government is on development and improving Nigerians’ lives,” Dare said.
He further noted that the Tinubu administration encourages constructive engagement with the legislative process for anyone dissatisfied with the tax reform bills, emphasizing that attempts to disrupt the process are “self-serving.”
Governor Mohammed has stood by his comments, accusing the Presidency of arrogance and urging federal authorities to listen to Nigerians’ concerns about the reforms.
The exchange highlights the growing tension between the Federal Government and opposition-led states over critical national policies.
