Tax Reforms and Political Drama: Bauchi Governor Under Fire from Presidential Aide

By Achimi muktar

In a fiery exchange of words, Sunday Dare, the Special Adviser to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Media and Public Communications, has accused Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed of playing "irresponsible politics" with the proposed Tax Reform Bills. Dare urged the governor to focus on solving his state’s pressing challenges rather than using President Tinubu’s administration as a scapegoat to bolster his public image.

Tax Reforms at the Core

The controversy centers on the Tax Reform Bills introduced by President Tinubu’s administration, which aim to revitalize Nigeria’s economy. Minister of State for Industry, Senator John Owan-Enoh, praised the reforms, describing them as a game-changer for the industrial sector. Speaking in his hometown of Etung, Cross River State, Owan-Enoh reminded Nigerians of Tinubu’s promise to achieve a $1 trillion economy, emphasizing that the tax reforms are a critical step toward that goal.

“This reform is essential to unlocking Nigeria’s industrial potential,” Owan-Enoh stated. “It aligns perfectly with the administration’s broader vision for economic transformation.”

Dare’s Rebuttal

In a statement issued in Abuja, Dare criticized Governor Mohammed’s vocal opposition to the reforms, calling it an attempt to politicize a crucial national agenda.

“Governor Bala Mohammed is playing bad politics,” Dare declared. “Instead of focusing on improving the lives of Bauchi’s impoverished population, he’s engaging in unwarranted attacks on the Federal Government.”

Dare further stressed that the Tinubu administration remains focused on development and collaboration with all stakeholders, stating, “This government is committed to the well-being of Nigerians and will not be distracted by pseudo-activists or political grandstanding.”

Addressing the Critics

Dare urged Governor Mohammed and other critics to channel their concerns through appropriate legislative processes, reinforcing the administration’s commitment to democracy.

“President Tinubu is a listening leader,” Dare said. “Those who feel strongly about the Tax Reform Bills should engage constructively with the National Assembly, rather than attempting to derail this crucial process.”

Challenges for Bauchi

Turning his attention to Bauchi State, Dare questioned Governor Mohammed’s governance record, pointing to the state’s ranking among Nigeria’s poorest.

“How has Governor Mohammed utilized the increased resources at his disposal to uplift the people of Bauchi?” Dare asked. “Leadership demands accountability, and the governor owes his people tangible results, not political distractions.”

Tinubu’s Focus on Economic Revival

Despite the political drama, the Tinubu administration remains steadfast in its mission to revamp Nigeria’s economy. Dare reassured Nigerians that the benefits of the government’s reforms are already visible and will continue to improve lives in the coming months.

“President Tinubu has a national mandate and a clear vision for economic transformation,” Dare stated. “His focus is unwavering, and Nigerians will soon witness the full impact of these reforms.”

What Lies Ahead?

As the debate over the Tax Reform Bills continues, the spotlight remains on both the Federal Government’s economic agenda and the performance of state leaders. Will Governor Mohammed rise to the challenge of addressing Bauchi’s pressing issues, or will political squabbles dominate the discourse? Only time will tell.