Criticism of Tinubu’s policies “a reminder of his responsibility, not an attack on his authority,” he insists
By Jeph Ajobaju, Chief Copy Editor
My criticism of Bola Tinubu’s policies is not politically motivated, says Bauchi Governor Bala Mohammed, the arrowhead of Northern opposition to the President’s Tax Reform Bills many see as an attempt to squeeze more money from the poor in order to provide more funds for the elite to luxuriate and gloat.
Mohammed bared his mind through his Media and Publicity Adviser Mukhtar Gidado in response to the recent comments of Presidential Media and Public Communication Adviser Sunday Dare, who disparaged Mohammed for questioning Tinubu.
Mohammed emphasised that he has consistently supported policies that are in the best interest of the nation while offering constructive feedback on those that need improvement, Gidado explained in a statement.
The statement clarified that “Governor Bala’s critique of the Tax Reform Bills is based on his experience as a former Federal Capital Territory Minister, a second-term governor, and the Chairman of the PDP Governors Forum.
“With his deep understanding of inclusive governance and firsthand experience with the impact of poorly designed macro-economic policies, he recognizes the importance of carefully considered reforms.
“Policies that affect the livelihoods of millions of Nigerians cannot be imposed without broad-based consultation.
“In a constitutional democracy, the President is obligated to engage stakeholders, build consensus, and consider alternative views. Governor Mohammed’s comments are a reminder of this responsibility, not an attack on the President’s authority.
“In fact, it is correct to say that Governor Bala Mohammed is only a good student of President Tinubu whose pedigree as a pro-democracy activist and critic launched his political career, catapulting him to the exalted position that he occupies today.
“Not only did President Tinubu stand boldly against anti-democratic military dictatorship, even as Governor of Lagos State, he fought President Olusegun Obasanjo to a standstill in pursuit of his vision of further democratising the local government system in the state.
“We do not recall that the President’s media team ever descended on him with expletives or unbridled disrespect.
“This is not the first time Mr. Dare has launched an unprovoked attack on Governor Bala Mohammed. His role as a media adviser demands professionalism, diplomacy, and an unwavering commitment to uniting Nigerians behind the President’s vision.
“Instead, Mr. Dare has chosen to sow division and distract from critical national issues.
“We reiterate that Governor Bala Mohammed respects the Office of the President and the responsibilities it entails. However, respect does not preclude critique in a democracy.”
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