The Presidency has criticised recent statements made by Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State regarding the tax reform bills and his veiled threats against the federal government (FG).
Governor Bala had claimed that tax reforms would unleash economic devastation upon Northern Nigeria.
The governor threatened that the North would show its true colours to President Bola Tinubu if they insisted on going ahead with the tax reform bills despite the outcries.
Reacting to Bala’s threat, Sunday Dare, Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Media and Public Communication in a statement today described the governor’s assertion, “We will show President Tinubu our true color,” as inflammatory and unbecoming of a state governor.
He emphasised that Governor Bala’s rhetoric undermines constructive dialogue and collaborative governance, which are crucial for addressing Nigeria’s pressing challenges.
Dare also highlighted that Bauchi State has received N144 billion in federal allocations under the Tinubu administration, a significant increase compared to previous disbursements.
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He said this amount includes the N2 billion special intervention fund for food security and compensation payments following the removal of the fuel subsidy.
“Rather than issuing threats, his energy might be better directed toward implementing effective poverty alleviation programs and ensuring transparent utilization of these federal resources.
“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”, said Dare.
He underscored the benefits of the tax reform bills and increased federal allocations.
Dare highlighted key benefits of federal allocations to Bauchi State, emphasising that the state has received N144 billion, one of the highest increases in federal disbursements to states, granting it unprecedented fiscal resources.
Among these funds he said was a recent N2 billion special intervention fund allocated to each state to enhance food security.
Additionally, he noted that the removal of fuel subsidy compensation payments has significantly boosted state revenues, while special consideration for derivation funds continues to protect the interests of northern states, including Bauchi.
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Dare added that the reforms aim to streamline taxation systems, enhance revenue collection efficiency, and protect informal sector workers, key contributors to Bauchi’s economy.
He said the bills give provisions for agricultural businesses and frameworks for attracting investments through tax incentives that offer significant opportunities for the state to grow its economy.
According to him, the initiatives demonstrate the FG’s commitment to supporting state development.
He added that Governor Bala should leverage these resources by implementing transparent fiscal management, developing tax incentives to attract investments, and investing in agricultural value chains.
Dare stressed the need for unity and collaboration among political leaders, urging Governor Bala to retract his confrontational comments and focus on productive engagement with the FG.
He appealed to all political leaders to prioritise the collective good over personal or regional interests.
