Haruna Salisu Alleges Nepotism in Bauchi Government Under Governor Bala Mohamme

abHaruna Salisu, the Publisher of WikkiTimes, a Bauchi-based media organization, has accused Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed of engaging in unprecedented nepotism and demonstrating a lack of tolerance for constructive criticism.

Salisu criticized the governor’s administration for alleged favoritism, claiming that key government positions have been filled with relatives and close associates, undermining the principles of merit-based governance.

“To the best of my knowledge, there’s no governor in Northern Nigeria that demonstrates such a glaring disregard for due process and nepotism as Governor Mohammed,” Salisu stated. “Strategic ministries and agencies are being controlled by the governor’s family and friends. This is not governance; it is outright nepotism.”

The publisher pointed to the appointments of Dr. Rilwanu Mohammed and Adamu Duguri, both relatives of the governor, as chairmen of the Bauchi Primary Health Care Agency and the State Universal Basic Education Board, respectively. Salisu expressed concern that these positions, which manage significant developmental funds, were being misused for personal gain.

“Everyone knows there are interventions from developmental partners running into billions of naira in these sectors. Appointing loyalists and family members to such sensitive positions only raises concerns about transparency and accountability,” Salisu added.

The publisher also accused Governor Mohammed of stifling dissent and targeting critics, alleging that individuals who speak out against the administration are often harassed, arrested, or silenced. Salisu recounted his own alleged arrest and imprisonment, claiming it was ordered by the governor after exposing corruption through WikkiTimes. He also cited the arrests of several youths during the 2023 general elections for posting critical comments on social media.

Salisu further referred to the case of Dr. Idris Abdul’aziz Dutsen Tanshi, an Islamic scholar who was reportedly arrested and imprisoned after criticizing the government’s policies.

“Governor Mohammed’s administration has consistently shown intolerance toward constructive criticism,” Salisu said. “Anyone who speaks out is treated as an enemy, even when their intentions are to improve governance.”

In addition to these allegations, Salisu raised concerns about the governor’s recent trip to China, where he signed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with Chinese companies for mining activities in Bauchi State. Salisu questioned the transparency surrounding these agreements, specifically asking why projected revenues from these deals were not included in the 2025 budget.

“Governor Mohammed, let us look at the 2025 budget. How much revenue is projected from the MoUs you signed in China? Why was this not included in the budget? This lack of transparency raises serious questions,” Salisu asked.

The publisher called on Governor Mohammed to address these issues and provide clarity in order to restore public confidence in his administration.