CNG Condemns Presidency’s Response to Governor Bala Mohammed’s Remarks on Tax Reforms
The Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) has expressed strong condemnation over the recent subtle threats issued by the Presidency against Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed following his candid remarks on the proposed tax reform bills. The group criticized the response from President Bola Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Media and Public Communication, Sunday Dare, who had attacked the governor’s position on the controversial tax reforms currently under consideration in the National Assembly.
In a statement from the national coordinator, Comrade Jamilu Aliyu Charanchi, the CNG emphasized that Governor Mohammed’s comments were legitimate within the democratic context, intended to spark constructive dialogue and advocate for the welfare of Bauchi State and the broader Northern region. The CNG also questioned the Presidency’s decision to label the governor’s remarks as inflammatory, noting that such a response was unhelpful and dismissive of valid concerns.
Charanchi stated, “Governor Mohammed’s comments were completely acceptable and constructive in a democratic system that encourages dialogic conversations.” He explained that the governor’s statement—”We will show President Tinubu our true colour”—was not a threat but a call for sincere engagement and dialogue with the Federal Government, aimed at addressing the perceived injustice in the proposed tax reforms.
The CNG further emphasized that the tax reform proposals, which are deeply unpopular among many Nigerians, should be implemented in a way that avoids divisiveness and ensures fairness across the country. They argued that the reforms should not disproportionately benefit a few states at the expense of others.
Criticizing the Presidency’s reaction, Charanchi accused the government of deflecting from the pressing issues raised by Governor Mohammed and the majority of Nigerians. He reminded President Tinubu of the severe economic hardship many Nigerians have faced under his administration, highlighting the impacts of policies such as the removal of fuel subsidies, which has led to rising fuel prices and increased transportation and goods costs. He also mentioned the hike in electricity tariffs, which he said has worsened the living conditions of Nigerians, making President Tinubu the “foremost promoter of abject poverty across the nation.”
The CNG also called attention to the ongoing issues of insecurity in the country, including insurgency, banditry, and communal conflicts, which continue to threaten national stability. They urged the Presidency to focus on resolving these security issues and improving the nation’s power infrastructure to support economic growth.
Furthermore, the CNG pointed to allegations of corruption against President Tinubu, referencing a report by the Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP) that identified him as one of the most corrupt individuals globally. The group urged the Presidency to address these concerns before accusing others of corruption.
In conclusion, the CNG expressed full support for Governor Bala Mohammed’s stance on the tax reforms and reiterated its commitment to advocating for the needs and interests of the Northern region. They stressed the importance of open and honest dialogue for the progress and cohesion of Nigeria’s democracy, calling on the Presidency to engage constructively with the governor and other leaders to improve the proposed tax reform bills for the benefit of the Nigerian people.
