The Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) has strongly criticized the Presidency for its recent comments targeting Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed following his objections to the proposed tax reform bills under review at the National Assembly.
In a statement by its National Coordinator, Comrade Jamilu Aliyu Charanchi, the CNG expressed dismay over the response by President Bola Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Media and Public Communication, Sunday Dare.
The group described the Presidency’s reaction as unwarranted, given the Governor’s democratic right to voice concerns over policies perceived as detrimental to Nigerians.
“The Presidency’s response, labeling Governor Mohammed’s comments as inflammatory, is both dismissive and unhelpful. Instead of addressing the valid concerns raised, the Presidency has chosen to deflect and criticize. This approach does not foster the constructive dialogue needed to address the pressing issues at hand,” the statement read.
The CNG defended Governor Mohammed’s remarks, emphasizing their alignment with democratic principles.
According to the group, his statement, “We will show President Tinubu our true color,” was not a threat but a call for genuine dialogue to advocate for the welfare of Bauchi State and the Northern region.
“Governor Mohammed’s remarks echo the frustrations and concerns of countless Nigerians who believe that the Tax Reforms must not be implemented in a manner that is unjust, divisive, and deliberately skewed to favor a few states over the majority,” the statement added.
The CNG also emphasized growing discontent with President Tinubu’s economic policies, including the removal of fuel subsidies and electricity tariff hikes, which they claim have exacerbated inflation, devalued the naira, and increased economic hardship nationwide.
“His anti-people policies, such as the removal of fuel subsidies, have led to a significant increase in fuel prices, triggering a ripple effect on transportation costs and the prices of goods,” the group stated.
The CNG accused the Presidency of ignoring constructive criticism and advised it to focus on resolving critical issues such as inadequate power infrastructure, rising insecurity, and economic instability.
The statement further referenced global allegations of corruption against President Tinubu, urging the administration to address its shortcomings before deflecting criticism.
“This should prompt the Presidency to address its own 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.
“We assert that if the Presidency harbors no ulterior motives in response to constructive criticism, it should engage with Governor Mohammed and other leaders in a manner that promotes mutual understanding and collaboration to refine the bills for the betterment of the Nigerian people.
“As an elected leader, Governor Mohammed’s duty is to proactively voice the concerns of his people, especially when federal policies appear detrimental to their welfare. His comments should be viewed as part of his statesmanship, as he seeks to protect the interests of his state and the Northern region as a whole.
We urge the Federal Government to engage with Governor Mohammed and other Northern leaders constructively, rather than resorting to personal attacks or dismissive rhetoric, ” the statement added.
