Embrace dialogue, not force – BALA MOHAMMED tells TINUBU to adopt consultative approach to tax reform bill

Wednesday, January 1, 2025 - Gov Bala Mohammed of Bauchi has again spoken against the controversial Tax Reform Bill, stating that this is not a military regime.

The governor called on President Tinubu to adopt a more inclusive and consultative approach to the controversial Tax Reform Bill.

Citing Tinubu’s own history of challenging the central government during his tenure as Lagos State Governor under President Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration, as well as his role in NADECO, Mohammed urged the Presidency to prioritize dialogue over coercion in implementing policies that affect Nigerians.

Speaking on Channels TV’s 2024 in Review on yesterday, Mohammed defended his critiques of the bill, stating that it is unpopular among Nigerians and particularly with states lacking derivative earnings.

“We asked for more collaboration, but he refused and pressed on,” Mohammed said.
“Some issues—like the fact that even the NEC and some ministers were unaware this bill was heading to the National Assembly—highlight a lack of consultation.

“This isn’t a military regime. Even military leaders allowed for dissent. The President himself, as a former governor, challenged the Federal Government in those days, and the heavens didn’t fall,” he said.

Mohammed added that his criticisms come in good faith, given Tinubu’s history as a democrat who led protests against the Federal Government during his NADECO days.
However, he expressed disappointment with the Presidency’s dismissive response to his concerns

“Even genuine advice is now seen as an affront or insult, warranting hostile reactions. This is undemocratic and uncharacteristic of Tinubu,” he said.

When asked about claims that the reforms would push states to better utilize their resources, Mohammed questioned the cost of such an approach.

“Should we die before we sit up? We need dialogue. Yes, reforms can encourage resource optimization, but even during the Buhari administration, we managed to improve our IGR through collaboration,” he noted.

“We’re not saying he doesn’t have the right to push reforms. As someone who achieved a lot in Lagos, we had high hopes for him. But midway, we’re disappointed. He’s not accommodating or willing to listen.

“He assumes his decisions are absolute, but that’s not how democracy works. He must listen to Nigerians when there’s widespread concern,” Mohammed concluded.