The presidency has accused Bala Mohammed, governor of Bauchi, of playing irresponsible politics with the tax reform bills.

BACKGROUND

Mohammed and the presidency have been engaged in a heated exchange over the tax reform bills currently before the national assembly.

In December, Mohammed, who chairs the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors’ Forum, criticised the bills, alleging that they favour one region.

The governor claimed the bills amounted to “calls for anarchy” and warned that President Bola Tinubu would see “our real colour” if the legislation were passed.

Subsequently, the presidency asked Mohammed to withdraw the comments against the president.

Sunday Dare, the president’s special adviser on media and public communication, said Mohammed’s remarks were “inflammatory ” and “direct threats toward the federal government”.

About 24 hours later, Mohammed fired back, saying he stood by his comments and would not be threatened.

Mohammed criticised the presidency’s approach to the tax reform debate, urging it to avoid arrogance and listen to the concerns of Nigerians.

‘PSEUDO ACTIVISTS’

In a statement issued on Friday, Dare asked the governor to stop playing “irresponsible politics” and focus on governance and alleviating poverty in Bauchi.

Dare said the Tinubu administration is focused on development and how to improve the overall well-being of Nigerians.

“The focus of this government is on how to build stronger collaborations with sub-nationals and other critical stakeholders on matters that affect the lives of Nigerians,” he said.

“President Tinubu won an election and secured a national mandate from Nigerians and he will not surrender that to satisfy the palate of some pseudo activists and later day crusaders.

“President Tinubu is a listening leader and also a leader who strongly believes in the institutions of the state.

“On the Tax Reform Bills, the President was clear that anyone and groups that feel strongly about this matter now before the National Assembly should take advantage of the legislative process.

“Attempts to stampede or abort this process must be regarded as undemocratic and self-serving.”

Dare said Nigerians are interested in what Mohammed is doing to make life better for the people of Bauchi state.

“How well are the people of his state who still rank as most impoverished among Nigerians fairing under his leadership?” he asked.

“How well has he as governor used the increased resources at his disposal to improve the quality of life of his people?

“Just like President Tinubu has a duty to all Nigerians, governor Bala has greater duty and responsibility to the people of his state.

“Constant blustering and playing irresponsible politics will not relieve him of his duty to the people of Bauchi State his leadership has impoverished.

“Governor Bala should face governance and stop using President Tinubu to burnish his vanishing image.

“President Tinubu is focused on revamping the economy and he is working to turn the economic fortunes of the country around.”