Bauchi Governor denies threatening President Tinubu, vows collaboration on tax reforms

December 31, 2024

By Ayinde Adeleke

The Governor of Bauchi State, Bala Mohammed, has denied threatening President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over the controversial Tax Reform Bill.

Mohammed’s initial statement, where he warned that the bill was “anti-northern” and threatened to “show our true colour” if the President proceeded with the reform, was taken out of context, according to his media aide, Mukhtar Gidado.

Gidado stated, “It is the height of mischief that Governor Bala Mohammed’s candid advice on the dangers of proceeding with bad decisions or policies that could worsen the plight of the masses has been taken out of context as a threat to the presidency.”

He emphasized that Mohammed has the “greatest respect” for the presidency and was merely offering precautionary advice to ensure the proposed tax reforms are equitable and inclusive.

The Governor’s remarks were aimed at fostering dialogue and advocating for policies that protect the interests of ordinary Nigerians, particularly those in economically disadvantaged states.

Gidado noted that Mohammed’s reservations against the tax reforms coincide with those of some APC governors who have consistently warned against implementing the proposed reform in its present form.

The Bauchi State Government has assured the Presidency that, despite the misunderstanding, they remain committed to collaborating with the Federal Government to address national challenges, including the Tax Reform Bill.

Gidado challenged the Presidency, saying that if they had genuinely desired an all-inclusive tax reform, they could have subjected a draft to discussion before presenting it to the National Assembly.