Tax Bills: Presidency Slammed Over Threat To Gov Bala Mohammed

The Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) has condemned the recent subtle threats issued by the Presidency against Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed for his candid remarks on the proposed tax reform bills currently under consideration at the National Assembly.

In a statement by the national coordinator, Comrade Jamilu Aliyu Charanchi, the CNG said it found it imperative to address the statement made by the Special Adviser on Media and Public Communication to President Bola Tinubu, Sunday Dare, which unjustly attacked the Governor in a democratic setting over his stance on the controversial Tax Reforms Bills that is deeply unpopular with the majority of Nigerians.

He said the Presidency’s response, labelling Governor Mohammed’s comments as inflammatory, is both dismissive and unhelpful. Instead of addressing the valid concerns raised, the Presidency has deflected and criticised, adding that this approach does not foster the constructive dialogue needed to address the pressing issues.

“We find it significant to remind all and sundry that Governor Mohammed’s comments were completely acceptable and constructive in a democratic system that encourages dialogic conversations, which he made in the spirit of advocating for the welfare of Bauchi State and the broader Northern region within the Nigerian political milieu,” he said.

He said Governor Bala Mohammed’s statement, “We will show President Tinubu our true colour,” was a call for sincere and constructive dialogue with the Federal Government, not a threat.

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“Governor Mohammed’s remarks echo the frustrations and concerns of countless Nigerians who believe that the Tax Reforms must not be implemented in an unjust, divisive manner and deliberately skewed to favour a few states over the majority.

“Regrettably, instead of heeding the Governor’s wise counsel and constructive criticism that the vast majority of Nigerians has already echoed, the Presidency snarled in response like an untamed beast at the heels of a fleeting traveller simply because of their unwillingness to swallow the pill of a bitter truth. Thus, the CNG seized this opportunity to remind President Tinubu that his administration has inflicted severe economic hardship on the populace in less than two years,” he added.

He said Tinubu’s anti-people policies, such as removing fuel subsidies, have led to a significant increase in fuel prices, triggering a ripple effect on transportation costs and the prices of goods. He added that the hike in electricity tariffs has compounded the difficulties many Nigerians face, making President Tinubu the foremost promoter of abject poverty across the nation.

“The CNG wishes to highlight that President Tinubu’s disastrous economic policies have led to severe inflation and currency devaluation, causing significant financial hardship for Nigerians. Ongoing issues with insurgency, banditry, and communal conflicts continue to jeopardise national security and stability. The government’s inability to tackle these problems has left many Nigerians in constant fear.

“We urge the Presidency to prioritise resolving the persistent issues of inadequate power generation, transmission, and distribution infrastructure, which stifle economic growth and development. These challenges have disrupted businesses and daily life, further deepening the economic crisis,” he said.

It was noted that the Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP) identified President Tinubu as one of the most corrupt individuals globally, saying that this should prompt the presidency to address its failings before accusing others of corruption.

“Despite numerous allegations against President Tinubu, there have been no substantial efforts to combat corrupt practices within his administration.

“The CNG stands resolutely behind Governor Mohammed on this issue of tax reform and his unwavering dedication to advocating for the needs and interests of his people, exercising his constitutional freedom. For any democracy to thrive, open and honest dialogue is essential for achieving meaningful progress and fostering national cohesion,” he said.

He asserted that if the Presidency harbours no ulterior motives in responding to constructive criticism, it should engage with Governor Mohammed and other leaders to promote mutual understanding and collaboration and refine the bills for the betterment of the Nigerian people.