My critique of Tinubu’s policies not political – Bauchi Gov

The governor of Bauchi State, Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, says his constructive criticism against some of the federal government policies is not political.

The governor stated this while reacting to the recent report attributed to Mr. Sunday Dare, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication.

Mohammed, in a statement issued by Mukhtar Gidado, his special adviser on media and publicity, said he had consistently supported policies that aligned with the nation’s best interests and had provided constructive feedback on those that required improvement.

The statement added that “Governor Bala’s critique of the Tax Reform Bills stems from his experience as a former Federal Capital Territory Minister, a current second-term Governor and Chairman of PDP Governors Forum, who, besides understanding the importance of inclusive governance has first hand experience of the dangers posed by unwholesome or ill-digested macro-economic policies.

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“Policies that affect the livelihoods of millions of Nigerians cannot be imposed without broad-based consultation. In a constitutional democracy, the President is obligated to engage stakeholders, build consensus, and consider alternative views. Governor Mohammed’s comments are a reminder of this responsibility, not an attack on the President’s authority.

“In fact, it is correct to say that Governor Bala Mohammed is only a good student of President Tinubu whose pedigree as a pro-democracy activist and critic launched his political career, catapulting him to the exalted position that he occupies today.

“Not only did President Tinubu stand boldly against anti-democratic military dictatorship, even as Governor of Lagos State, he fought President Olusegun Obasanjo to a standstill in pursuit of his vision of further democratising the local government system in the state.

“We do not recall that the President’s media team ever descended on him with expletives or unbridled disrespect.

“This is not the first time Mr. Dare has launched an unprovoked attack on Governor Bala Mohammed. His role as a media adviser demands professionalism, diplomacy, and an unwavering commitment to uniting Nigerians behind the President’s vision. Instead, Mr. Dare has chosen to sow division and distract from critical national issues.

“We reiterate that Governor Bala Mohammed respects the Office of the President and the responsibilities it entails. However, respect does not preclude critique in a democracy.

“Moving forward, we urge Mr. Dare to channel his efforts toward promoting the President’s policies and achievements, if any, rather than disparaging those offering constructive feedback.

“A democracy thrives on dialogue, not intimidation. It is time for the President’s media team to embrace this principle and recognize that dissent is not a threat—it is an opportunity to build a better, stronger Nigeria.”