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Presidency To Bauchi Gov: Tackle poverty in your state first before attacking Tinubu

Published

5 days ago

December 30, 2024

The presidency has responded sharply to Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed’s recent comments, urging him to redirect his efforts toward addressing the developmental and poverty challenges in his state rather than issuing threats against President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

Special Adviser to President Tinubu on Media and Public Communication, Sunday Dare, cautioned Governor Mohammed against making inflammatory statements. He emphasized that the Governor’s remarks, particularly his comment about showing President Tinubu “our true color,” were inappropriate and unbecoming of someone in his position.

Governor Mohammed’s Criticism of Tax Reforms
The controversy began when Governor Mohammed criticized the Tax Reform Bills introduced by the Tinubu administration, labeling them as anti-North and threatening to harm the unity of Nigeria.

The Governor expressed concerns that the reforms disproportionately benefited certain regions while leaving the North at a disadvantage. He also urged the Federal Government to reassess its policies to reflect the interests of all Nigerians, warning that ignoring public grievances could lead to unrest.

Presidency Responds to Governor’s Remarks
In response, the presidency described Mohammed’s comments as unfortunate and not reflective of the collective sentiment of the Northern region.

The presidency pointed out that Bauchi State had received N144 billion in federal allocations, a substantial increase from previous allocations, yet the state continued to struggle with significant developmental challenges and high poverty rates.

The presidency stressed that rather than making confrontational statements, Governor Mohammed should focus on improving his state’s governance by utilizing the available federal resources effectively. They emphasized that his remarks did not align with the constructive dialogue needed for national progress and that such rhetoric could potentially undermine efforts toward national cohesion.

Details of Federal Allocations and Tax Reforms
The presidency also defended the Tax Reform Act, highlighting its potential benefits for states, including Bauchi. They pointed out that Bauchi had received one of the highest increases in federal disbursements, including a special N2 billion food security fund for each state. Other benefits include the removal of fuel subsidy compensation payments, which have boosted state revenues, and special provisions for northern states’ interests through derivation funds.

In terms of tax reforms, the presidency outlined several advantages, including the streamlining of multiple tax systems that burden small businesses, enhanced revenue collection through digitalization, and protections for informal sector workers. These reforms are seen as particularly beneficial for Bauchi’s agricultural communities, a vital part of the state’s economy.

Call for Collaboration Over Confrontation
The presidency called on Governor Mohammed and other public officials to rise above regional, religious, and political sentiments and support President Tinubu’s efforts to improve the country. The statement emphasized that Nigeria’s development requires unity of purpose, with collaboration between state and federal governments being essential for overcoming the country’s challenges.

Public officials were urged to focus on constructive dialogue, efficient resource management, and national unity rather than divisive rhetoric. The presidency concluded with a reminder that the primary responsibility of political leaders is to improve the lives of their citizens, and this can best be achieved through collaboration and shared goals.

A Final Word of Advice
In conclusion, the presidency shared a proverb in Hausa, “Gyara kayanka baya zama sauke mu raba,” suggesting that it is important for the Governor to focus on improving his state’s situation before engaging in unnecessary confrontations.

This response underscores the need for unity and productive collaboration as Nigeria strives toward a prosperous future.

Related Topics:Economy fuel Nigeria president Tinubu

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Gunmen abduct Nigerian Professor, Demand N10m Ransom

Published

2 hours ago

January 4, 2025

Kayode Sanni-Arewa

By Kayode Sanni-Arewa

Gunmen suspected to be kidnappers have abducted Professor John Ebeh, a senior lecturer in the Department of Philosophy at Prince Abubakar Audu University (PAAU), Anyigba, Kogi State.

The assailants are reportedly demanding a N10 million ransom for his release.

Eyewitness accounts revealed that the attackers invaded the professor’s residence in Agbeji, a suburb of Anyigba, in Dekina Local Government Area, at about 7 p.m. on Thursday.

According to a neighbor who identified himself as Akpai, “The hoodlums operated in a commando manner. It was swift. We noticed a car trailing him furiously; we took it as one of his friends or colleagues, not until we started hearing gunshots around his gate.”

A family source disclosed that the professor was abducted just as he was about to enter his compound.

“Professor Ebeh was almost at the gate of his house at Agbeji, on his way from the town when the incident happened.

“He had even given out a signal to his people to open the gate of his house when some people emerged suddenly from their hideout and started shooting sporadically.

“Amidst the confusion, someone drove in furiously and blocked his car.

“Some masked people alighted from the vehicle and whisked him away at gunpoint.

“His abductors called the family on Friday night, demanding N10 million,” the source recounted.

University officials have yet to issue an official statement regarding the incident.

However, one of Professor Ebeh’s colleagues expressed shock at the development, saying, “The kidnapping (of the professor) came to us as a shock. I have just visited his family to sympathize with them.”

News

Sad: Ondo SSG Is Dead

Published

2 hours ago

January 4, 2025

Kayode Sanni-Arewa

By Kayode Sanni-Arewa

The Secretary to the Ondo State Government, Tayo Oluwatuyi, on Saturday died in an auto crash.

The SSG died in the crash which occurred while he was traveling from Akure, Ondo State capital, to Ibadan in Oyo State.

Confirming the incident, Ondo State Commissioner for Information, Wale Akinlosotu, stated that Oluwatuyi was hospitalised before he gave up the ghost.

“Hon. Oluwatuyi was a dedicated public servant whose unwavering commitment to administrative coordination, policy advisory, and implementation had a significant impact on Ondo State.

“Further details regarding memorial arrangements will be shared as they become available,” he added.

News

Mohamed Salah confirms this season as his last season at Liverpool

Published

2 hours ago

January 4, 2025

Kayode Sanni-Arewa

By Kayode Sanni-Arewa

Liverpool’s talisman, Mohamed Salah Hamed Mahrous Ghaly, popularly known as Mohamed Salah, has confirmed that the 2024–2025 football season will be his last season donning the shirts of Liverpool.

In an interview with Sky Sports, Mo Salah revealed that he is eager to win this year’s English Premier League title for the Reds to sign off his eight-year stay with the Merseyside based club.

Salah reflected on Liverpool’s previous Premier League triumph in the 2019-2020 season, noting that they were unable to celebrate it as they had hoped. Salah stated that he is determined to help the team win the title this year and celebrate in a manner worthy of their remarkable achievement.

He reflected on Liverpool’s previous Premier League triumph, noting that they were unable to celebrate it as they had hoped. Salah stated that he is determined to help the team win the title this year and celebrate in a manner worthy of their remarkable achievement.

“It’s probably because we didn’t celebrate the one we won in the way we wanted and also, coming back here too, it’s my last year in the club so you want to do something special for the city.

“We waited for that title for 30 years or so. So, to win it and it was the pandemic at that time, we didn’t really have time to celebrate it in the right way. It’s not a nice thing to do, so hopefully we can do it this year.”

“I really want to win the Premier League this season as it’s my last year at the club. I want to give something special to the City.” He said.

Mohamed Salah’s contract with Liverpool is set to expire at the end of the current season. He explained that although his agent, Ramy Abbas, and Liverpool are yet to reach any conclusive decision regarding a contract renewal, he remains focused and is not distracted by the off-field uncertainty.

“We are far away from any progress so we just need to wait and see.

“The thing in my head is ‘OK, if it’s my last six months, or last year, what do you want to see in the future? Do you want to look back and say I was concerned about the contract or I was stressed’ or do you just want to say ‘OK, I had an unbelievable season’.

“That’s in my head now. All the time now. If I feel that kind of distraction, I remind myself ‘You want to look back and you had an unbelievable season’. So that’s what I want to do.” He explained.

He has been in electric form this term, scoring 17 goals in 18 league games, while also registering 13 assists. He has won 9 trophies with Liverpool which includes 1 EPL title, 1 FA Cup, 2 EFL Cups, 1 FA Community Shield, 1 UEFA Champions League title, 1 UEFA Super Cup and 1 FIFA Club World Cup.

Source: Elvisanokyenews.com