Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, has publicly expressed his growing discontent with President Bola Tinubu, citing the president’s policies as the primary reason for their deteriorating relationship. During a recent courtesy visit to Sheikh Sani Yahaya Jingir, the Chief Promoter of the Muslim-Muslim Ticket, Governor Mohammed explained the reasons behind his decision to distance himself from the president, which he said stemmed from the adverse effects of the current administration’s policies on Nigerians, particularly in the northern region.
Governor Mohammed did not mince words in his criticism of President Tinubu, accusing him of implementing policies that are harmful to the country’s progress and the well-being of its citizens. “Tinubu and I are not on good terms because his policies are causing hardship for the citizens,” the governor said during the visit. His comments come amid mounting frustrations across the country over the increasing economic difficulties faced by Nigerians, particularly as a result of recent government reforms.
The Bauchi governor specifically pointed to the tax reforms being proposed by the federal government, which he argued were particularly detrimental to the northern region. He emphasized the economic vulnerabilities of the North, noting that many states in the region rely heavily on federal allocations to fund their budgets. “The North, unfortunately, heavily relies on federal allocation to survive. The reforms he is proposing will put the region under dire strain,” Mohammed warned.
Governor Mohammed’s remarks were laced with concern for the region’s future. He painted a grim picture of the North’s economic situation, expressing fear that the proposed reforms would exacerbate the already precarious situation. The northern states, he argued, would suffer even more if the reforms were implemented without consideration of their unique economic challenges. This, he stated, would further widen the economic gap between the North and other regions in the country.
In an effort to persuade President Tinubu to reconsider his stance, Governor Mohammed sought the assistance of Sheikh Sani Yahaya Jingir, a respected figure in the Muslim community. The governor called on Sheikh Jingir to use his influence and wisdom to speak directly to the president on behalf of the northern region. “Thank God you are alive today to use your wise words of wisdom in this regard because us politicians tend to use harsh words in our approach. I believe you can inform the change we require,” Mohammed said, imploring the Sheikh to appeal to President Tinubu.
The governor’s appeal highlights the stark contrast between political leaders who are directly involved in the implementation of policies and those who represent the people on the ground. Mohammed’s frustration with Tinubu’s leadership, particularly regarding the president’s failure to address the economic hardships caused by his policies, underscores the growing divide between the ruling administration and key regional leaders.
Governor Mohammed also stressed the importance of adopting a more inclusive approach to governance. He emphasized that Nigeria’s leadership should not be solely focused on the needs of the elite or those in power but must consider the concerns of all Nigerians, particularly those in economically disadvantaged regions. “We need a leadership that listens to the people, one that prioritizes the needs of the poor and the vulnerable,” he said, echoing sentiments shared by many citizens across the country.
