The Presidency has urged Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed to retract what it termed his “inflammatory” comments regarding the Tax Reform Bill. In a statement shared on social media, Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Media and Public Communication, Mr. Sunday Dare, asserted that the governor’s remark, “We’ll show Tinubu our true colour,” does not represent the Northern region’s views or the constructive dialogue needed between state and federal governments.
Governor Mohammed made these controversial statements during a Christmas event with the Christian community at the Government House in Bauchi on December 25, 2024. He criticized President Tinubu’s tax reform policies, labeling them as “anti-northern” and suggesting they disproportionately benefit certain regions of the country. He warned that if these policies continued, the northern region would respond assertively, potentially leading to economic setbacks and threatening national unity.
In his response, Dare called on the governor to focus on productive dialogue with the Federal Government concerning the Tax Reform Act. He emphasized that Mohammed’s remarks do not reflect the collective stance of Northern Nigeria, which seeks collaboration and constructive engagement to tackle national issues.
Dare pointed out that Bauchi State has received significant federal allocations amounting to N144 billion under the current administration—an increase from previous years. Despite these funds, the state continues to face serious developmental challenges and high poverty levels. He urged the governor to demonstrate statesmanship and work towards fostering national unity.
The Presidency noted that the N144 billion allocation includes a recent N2 billion intervention fund aimed at enhancing food security, as well as increased revenues resulting from the removal of fuel subsidy compensation payments. Dare highlighted that the Tax Reform Act is designed to benefit states through streamlined taxation, improved revenue collection, and support for small businesses and the agricultural sector.
Dare concluded by stressing the importance of unity over divisive rhetoric, encouraging public officials to prioritize a shared vision for a stronger and more prosperous nation. He reiterated that the way forward lies in collaboration and constructive engagement rather than confrontation.
In October 2024, President Tinubu introduced several tax reform bills aimed at overhauling Nigeria’s tax system, including a proposed increase in the Value Added Tax (VAT) rate and new excise duties. While the reforms aim to simplify the tax framework and boost revenue generation, they have sparked significant controversy, particularly among northern political leaders who fear they may exacerbate regional inequalities.
As discussions on the bills continue in the National Assembly, the Presidency remains committed to engaging in further consultations to ensure the reforms address the interests of all regions.
