Tax bills: Presidency asks Gov Mohammed to withdraw ‘we’ll show Tinubu our true colour’ remark

The Presidency on Monday asked the Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, to immediately withdraw what it termed inflammatory remarks on the controversial tax reform bill.

The Special Adviser on Media and Public Communication to the President, Sunday Dare, made the call in a post titled: “RE: We’ll show Tinubu our True Colour,” posted on his X handle on Monday.

Mohammed had during a visit to the Government House in Bauchi by Christian community in the state last Wednesday expressed opposition to the tax reform policies initiated by President Bola Tinubu.

He described the initiatives as “anti-north” and favouring only a section of the country.

The govenor warned that if the policies continue, the northern region would “show the president its true colours” in response.

He stressed that such reforms could lead to economic setbacks and threaten national unity.

The governor also encouraged the Federal Government to reconsider and adopt more inclusive policies.

The tax reform bills have generated controversy with northern leaders arguing that the policies would further impoverish the north.

The president has also ruled out the withdrawal of the bills from the National Assembly.

Dare, however, in reaction to Mohammed’s threat averred that “We’ll show Tinubu our true colour,” neither reflects the stance of the North nor the constructive dialogue needed between states and the Federal Government.

The statement read: “The recent inflammatory rhetoric of Governor Bala Mohammed regarding the Tax Reform Act and direct threats toward the Federal Government are unbecoming of his office as a state governor.

“His statement “We will show President Tinubu our true color” is particularly concerning and does not reflect the constructive dialogue needed between state and FG.

“It bears noting that Bauchi State has received N144 billion (State and LGA) in federal allocations under the current administration – a significant increase from previous disbursements.

“Yet his state continues to grapple with serious developmental challenges and high poverty rates. Rather than issuing threats, his energy might be better directed toward implementing effective poverty alleviation programs and ensuring transparent utilization of these federal resources.

“This unfortunate statement does not represent the collective voice of Northern Nigeria. The North, like other regions, seeks collaborative governance and constructive engagement with the Federal Government to address our nation’s challenges.

“As a state governor, he is called to exemplify statesmanship and work toward national cohesion. I urge him to retract these confrontational remarks and redirect his focus toward productive dialogue with the FG regarding any concerns about the Tax Reform Act.

“The Tax Reform Act and increased federal allocations offer significant benefits to the States.”

Dare outlined the benefits as follows:

Federal Allocation Benefits:
1. The N144 billion allocation represents one of the highest increases in federal disbursements to states, providing Bauchi with unprecedented fiscal resources.

2. This includes the recent N2 billion special intervention fund given to each state for food security.

3. The removal of fuel subsidy compensation payments have boosted state revenues.

4. Special consideration for derivation funds protecting northern states’ interests.

Tax Reform Benefits:

1. Streamlining of multiple taxation systems that currently burden small businesses in Bauchi.

2. Enhanced revenue collection efficiency through digitalization.

READ ALSO: Tax reform here to stay — Tinubu

3. Protection of informal sector workers who form the backbone of Bauchi’s economy.

4. Special provisions for agricultural businesses, which is crucial for Bauchi’s farming communities

Development Opportunities:

1. The reforms create frameworks for attracting investments through tax incentives

2. Capacity building for state revenue services

These initiatives demonstrate the federal government’s commitment to supporting state development. Rather than antagonizing these efforts, he could leverage these resources by:

– Implementing transparent fiscal management systems

– Developing state-specific tax incentives to attract investments

– Investing in agricultural value chains

“Nigeria’s journey toward prosperity demands unity of purpose, not divisive rhetoric. At this critical juncture in our national development, public officials must rise above regional sentiments and political grandstanding to embrace the collective vision of a stronger, more prosperous nation. The challenges we face – from poverty to security, from economic growth to social development – transcend state boundaries and political affiliations.

“Indeed, all political leaders must remember that their primary obligation is to improve the lives of their citizens, which is best achieved through constructive dialogue, efficient resource management, and unwavering commitment to national unity.

“The path forward lies not in confrontation but in collaboration, not in threats but in thoughtful engagement, and certainly not in divisive statements but in unified action toward our shared goals of development and progress. This is the true leadership Nigeria needs – one that builds bridges, not barriers, and prioritizes the collective good over individual or regional interests.

“Finally, this Hausa might soothe the political nerves of the governor -“Gyara kayanka baya zama sauke mu raba.”

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