The Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) has criticized the Nigerian Presidency for issuing subtle threats against Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed following his recent remarks on the controversial tax reform bills under consideration in the National Assembly.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, CNG National Coordinator, Comrade Jamilu Aliyu Charanchi, condemned the response from Sunday Dare, Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Media and Public Communication, who had accused Governor Mohammed of making inflammatory comments.
The group deemed this attack as unjust, stating that the governor’s remarks were aimed at initiating constructive dialogue on the proposed reforms, which are widely unpopular among Nigerians.
Governor Mohammed’s statement, “We will show President Tinubu our true color,” was interpreted by the CNG as a call for honest discussion, not a threat.
The group emphasized that his criticism echoed the concerns of many Nigerians, particularly those in the northern region, who fear that the tax reforms could disproportionately benefit certain states at the expense of others.
“The Presidency’s reaction is unhelpful and dismissive,” Charanchi said.
“Rather than addressing the valid concerns raised by Governor Mohammed, the Presidency has chosen to criticize him, stifling necessary dialogue.”
The CNG also took the opportunity to reiterate its discontent with the economic policies of the Tinubu administration, citing the removal of fuel subsidies, which has led to higher fuel prices and increased inflation, as well as hikes in electricity tariffs.
These policies, according to the CNG, have pushed many Nigerians into deeper poverty. Additionally, the group criticized the government’s failure to adequately address issues such as insecurity, including insurgency and banditry, which continue to threaten national stability.
The CNG further urged President Tinubu to prioritize the resolution of infrastructural challenges, such as power generation and distribution, which have hindered economic growth.
The group also referred to reports from the Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP), which has linked President Tinubu to corruption, calling for a focus on internal reforms before accusing others of misconduct.
The group expressed its full support for Governor Mohammed, urging the federal government to engage in constructive dialogue with him and other northern leaders.
“For democracy to thrive, open and honest discussions are crucial,” Charanchi added.