From Our Correspondent
Bauchi State governor, Senator Bala Mohammed has clarified that his criticism of certain policies of the President Bola Tinubu-led federal government is not politically motivated.
The governor gave the clarification in response to recent comments attributed to the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication, Mr Sunday Dare.
In a statement released by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mukhtar Gidado, Governor Mohammed emphasised that he had consistently supported policies that were in the best interest of the nation, while offering constructive feedback on those that need improvement.
The governor explained that his critique of the Tax Reform Bills presented to the National Assembly by the president were based on his experience as a former minister of the Federal Capital Territory, a second-term governor, as well as the chairman of the PDP Governors Forum.
According to the statement, “With his deep understanding of inclusive governance and firsthand experience with the impact of poorly designed macro-economic policies, he (Mohammed) recognises the importance of carefully considered reforms.
“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 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 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 Mohammed. His role as a media adviser demands professionalism, diplomacy and an unwavering commitment to uniting Nigerians behind the president’s vision. Instead, he has chosen to sow division and distract from critical national issues.
“We reiterate that Governor Mohammed respects the office of the president and the responsibilities it entails. However, respect does not preclude critique in a democracy.”
