The Presidency on Monday called on Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, to retract what it described as an “inflammatory” statement regarding the Tax Reform Bill, urging him to pursue constructive dialogue with the Federal Government instead.
Governor Mohammed, during a Christmas homage by the Christian community at the Bauchi Government House on December 25, 2024, criticized President Bola Tinubu’s tax reforms as “anti-northern” and warned, “We’ll show Tinubu our true colour” if the policies persist. He argued that the reforms disproportionately favor certain regions, risking national unity and economic stability.
In response, Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Media and Public Communication, Mr. Sunday Dare, condemned the governor’s remarks, stating that such rhetoric does not represent the views of Northern Nigeria.
In a post on his X handle titled RE: We’ll Show Tinubu Our True Colour, Dare said, “Rather than issuing threats, Governor Mohammed should focus on productive dialogue with the Federal Government to address concerns about the Tax Reform Act.”
Dare highlighted the significant federal allocations Bauchi State has received, including N144 billion and a N2 billion special intervention fund for food security under the current administration. He also noted that the removal of fuel subsidies and targeted derivation funds had substantially boosted state revenues.
“The governor’s confrontational remarks are unbecoming of his office and do not reflect the collaborative spirit needed for governance,” Dare said. “Bauchi State continues to face high poverty rates despite substantial federal support. The governor must demonstrate statesmanship and prioritize effective poverty alleviation programs and fiscal transparency.”
Tax Reform Debate
President Tinubu introduced the Tax Reform Bills in October 2024 to revamp Nigeria’s tax system. The proposed changes aim to consolidate tax laws, simplify administration, and enhance revenue generation.
Key reforms include increasing the Value Added Tax (VAT) rate from 7.5% to 10% by 2025, imposing a 5% excise duty on telecommunications, and offering tax exemptions for small businesses earning below ₦50 million annually.
While the reforms are designed to boost infrastructure funding and social services, they have drawn criticism, particularly from northern political leaders. Opponents argue that changes to VAT distribution, which favor revenue-generating states, could exacerbate regional inequalities and increase the tax burden on consumers.
Despite the backlash, the Presidency insists that consultations on the bills will continue as they progress through the National Assembly.
Calls for Unity
Dare emphasized that national progress requires collaboration, not divisive rhetoric. He urged public officials to prioritize unity and focus on solutions to shared challenges such as poverty and economic development.
“The path forward lies in dialogue, not confrontation, and in fostering an inclusive vision for Nigeria’s prosperity,” Dare concluded. “Leaders must build bridges, not barriers, and work collectively for the nation’s growth.”
