Bauchi APC Criticizes Governor Mohammed Over Opposition to Tax Reforms, Calls for Accountability
The Bauchi State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has called on Governor Bala Mohammed to reconsider his opposition to President Bola Tinubu’s proposed tax reforms, describing the Tax Reform Bills currently before the National Assembly as a necessary step to enhance Nigeria’s economy and promote equity among states.
At a press conference in Bauchi, APC Publicity Secretary Adamu Aliyu Jallah emphasized that the proposed tax reforms would boost revenue generation, stimulate economic growth, and ensure better distribution of resources across states. He also stated that the reforms align with the global shift toward progressive taxation as a means of enhancing government revenue and meeting citizens’ needs.
In response to Governor Mohammed’s criticism of the reforms, Jallah said, “For Nigeria to compete favorably with developing nations, it must embrace progressive taxation policies. Tax reform is not a novel concept; it is a globally recognized tool for enhancing government revenue and meeting citizens’ needs. Instead of outright criticism, the governor should have taken time to study the bills and engage with relevant authorities constructively if he identified any issues.”
The APC also accused Governor Mohammed of mismanaging funds allocated to Bauchi State under the Tinubu administration. Jallah pointed out that the state had received N144 billion in Federation Account Allocations, in addition to other statutory funds and palliatives, yet there is little to show in terms of development. He called on the governor to account for these funds, questioning the lack of visible progress in the state.
“Let the governor account for all the funds received during this administration,” Jallah demanded, adding that the state’s apparent lack of progress raises concerns about financial transparency and accountability.
The APC spokesperson further criticized Governor Mohammed’s privatization agenda, claiming that the policy was primarily designed to benefit a select group of individuals rather than improving the state’s economy or creating jobs. He also pointed to the delayed salaries of state workers, some of whom have reportedly gone unpaid for up to three years, as further evidence of poor governance.
“The state government announced plans to privatize certain companies, claiming it was for productivity and efficiency. However, instead of revitalizing these companies to create jobs and generate revenue for the state, they were allocated to associates of the governor. Meanwhile, salaries in the state have been delayed for months, with some workers going unpaid for as long as three years,” Jallah stated.
The APC urged Governor Mohammed to focus on initiatives that would directly benefit the people of Bauchi State, including addressing the unresolved salary issues and prioritizing accountability in governance.
