The North-East Unity Forum (NEUF), a prominent non-governmental organization, has strongly criticized Sunday Dare, Special Adviser on Media and Public Communications to President Bola Tinubu, over his recent remarks about Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed.
In response to Dare’s article titled ‘Governor Bala Mohammed Playing Irresponsible Politics: An Expression of Crass Irrationality and Utmost Insensitivity by a Nosediving Government,’ the NEUF voiced its disapproval, expressing concern that the President’s spokesman, rather than focusing on the widespread struggles Nigerians are facing, chose to attack the Governor for addressing the pressing issues affecting ordinary citizens.
A statement from the NEUF, issued by its Chairman Comrade Yusuf Umar, on Saturday, emphasized Governor Bala Mohammed’s extensive public service background.
“In case Mr. Dare has forgotten or may be he is unaware, Alhaji Bala Mohammed is not an accidental public servant like Dare himself and his cohorts. Governor Bala Mohammed has worked for nearly 30 years in public service, having served as FCT Minister, as a Senator, and now in his second term as the Executive Governor of Bauchi State,” the statement said.
The NEUF emphasized that these achievements gave Governor Mohammed the right to comment on national issues, especially the controversial Tax Reform Bill, which he has criticized.
The statement continued: “These credentials and accomplishments position Governor Bala in a better place to comment, advise, and discuss matters of public concern, particularly in light of the ongoing efforts to malign Northern Nigeria with policies such as the Tax Reform Bill.”
The group also took aim at Dare’s tenure, pointing to the alleged failures of President Tinubu’s administration. “The intimidating credentials and track record of Governor Bala will only remain a dream for your principal, whose only accomplishments in elective office have been to make life harder for the masses. His record in Lagos between 1999-2007 is marked by authoritarianism and a lack of tangible achievements,” the group alleged.
The statement further criticized Dare for his perceived lack of understanding of the realities on the ground in Nigeria. “He lacks the exposure and the temerity to engage with sensitive issues. But in his desperation to defend his daily bread, he has dived into the most sensitive agenda of the ‘agbado’ administration, an agenda that is classically aimed at shortening the lifespan of Nigerians.”
The NEUF called on Dare to focus on the real issues facing Nigerians and to urge the President to adopt more compassionate policies. “We would like to call the attention of the confused spokesman to focus on the reality of the masses and advise the President to prioritize humane policies rather than those that empower a few cabals,” the statement added.
The Northern group also supported Governor Bala Mohammed’s stance on the government’s policies, emphasizing that the Governor’s remarks reflect the struggles of the average Northern Nigerian.
“Governor Bala has spoken for the masses of Northern Nigeria, highlighting the dire situation under the current government, where Nigerians are suffering from hunger and disease due to outdated and ineffective policies,” the statement said.
On the 2027 elections, NEUF said a coalition of youth organizations would work to ensure that President Tinubu does not secure a second term in office following his alleged poor performance.
“Governor Bala Mohammed has achieved remarkable progress in Bauchi State, uplifting the lives of the people and creating policies that promote equality, progress, and development. Dare should focus on the shame of the suffering caused by his principal’s leadership and refrain from commenting on issues in Bauchi State, where he has no understanding,” the statement concluded.
In closing, the NEUF reiterated that the current government is widely regarded as the worst since Nigeria’s return to democracy. “You should advise your boss to reconsider his harsh economic policies, which have led to widespread loss of businesses, lives, and livelihoods. His time is running out, and the 2027 elections are fast approaching,” the statement warned.
