The political landscape of Nigeria seems to be shifting as Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State faces new accusations from the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar. In a dramatic claim made during an appearance on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, Tuggar suggested that Mohammed’s vocal criticism of President Bola Tinubu’s recent tax reforms is not just a policy disagreement but a calculated move to launch a presidential campaign for 2027.
“Governor Bala Mohammed clearly lacks sincerity in his criticism,” Tuggar stated bluntly. “While it’s commendable that governors question the tax bills for the benefit of Nigerians, it’s evident that Bala Mohammed used this as a platform to start his presidential campaign far too early.”
Tuggar’s allegations come after months of growing tensions between Mohammed and the federal government, especially regarding the controversial tax reform bills, which have sparked heated debates across Nigeria. The Bauchi Governor’s outspoken remarks, particularly his warnings of an impending anarchy due to the reforms, have made headlines and raised eyebrows in the political scene.
The Controversial Comments That Started It All
In December 2024, Governor Bala Mohammed caused an uproar after he addressed a Christian community in Bauchi, voicing his opposition to the tax policy reforms proposed by President Tinubu’s administration. He claimed the reforms were unfavorable to the northern region of the country and warned of severe consequences if they were implemented as planned.
“These policies will not benefit the North. If they continue, the northern region will show its true colours,” Mohammed had said. His statement, laden with political overtones, warned of potential unrest and financial instability, suggesting that the reforms could make it impossible for governors to pay salaries and manage state budgets effectively.
This inflammatory rhetoric drew immediate criticism from the federal government, with the Presidency swiftly condemning his comments. A statement from the Presidency labeled Mohammed’s comments as “a threat to the President” and emphasized that his views were not representative of the broader northern sentiment. The government’s response painted the governor’s remarks as a dangerous attempt to undermine national unity.
Political Ambitions or Genuine Policy Concerns?
While critics of Mohammed believe his comments were politically motivated, Tuggar argued that they were part of a broader strategy to position himself for higher office. According to the Minister, the governor’s intense rhetoric against President Tinubu and his administration was designed to paint him as a strong leader standing against perceived injustice.
“He was the most severe in his attacks on the president,” Tuggar asserted, “and this wasn’t just about the tax bills — this was about Bala Mohammed planting the seeds of his 2027 presidential campaign. He was looking for attention, not constructive criticism.”
Governor Mohammed, however, denied any personal political motives. In a response to Tuggar’s comments, the Bauchi State governor maintained that his criticisms were borne out of genuine concern for the economic stability of Nigeria, especially for the northern states. His office issued a statement reiterating that the tax reforms, in their current form, would place an undue burden on northern governors, making it impossible for them to meet their fiscal obligations.
The Governors’ Forum and Its Support for the Reforms
Despite the fierce opposition from some governors like Mohammed, the majority of Nigeria’s state leaders have shown strong support for the federal government’s tax reform efforts. On January 16, 2025, the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) met to discuss the reforms and proposed adjustments to the Value-Added Tax (VAT) sharing formula. The forum expressed its backing for the comprehensive overhaul of the nation’s outdated tax laws, emphasizing that such reforms were crucial for the country’s economic development.
“These reforms are necessary,” said a source close to the NGF. “We cannot continue with a tax system that is not working for the country. There may be some differences in how the reforms are implemented, but we are in support of a comprehensive overhaul.”
The NGF’s endorsement stands in stark contrast to the fiery rhetoric of Governor Mohammed, further fueling speculation that his stance may be more about personal ambition than policy critique.
An Unlikely Alliance: Mohammed’s Attempts to Meet With Tinubu
In the wake of his criticism, Governor Mohammed has reportedly sought an audience with President Tinubu to discuss the tax reforms. Sources close to the governor claim that Mohammed hopes to smooth over relations and address his concerns directly with the president. However, the federal government has remained silent on whether any meeting will take place.
This move has raised eyebrows, with some political analysts questioning the sincerity of Mohammed’s attempts to engage with the president. “After making such extreme comments, now he wants to meet with the president? It’s clear he’s trying to salvage his image while keeping his presidential hopes alive,” said one political analyst, who preferred to remain anonymous.
What’s at Stake for Bala Mohammed?
As the 2027 presidential race draws closer, many political analysts believe that Bala Mohammed’s actions are part of a calculated effort to gain national prominence and position himself as a key player in the next presidential election. His opposition to the tax reforms has allowed him to present himself as a defender of the northern interests, a stance that could resonate with voters in the region.
However, Mohammed’s critics argue that such moves are not in the best interests of the country and could destabilize an already fragile political environment. Some have called his actions irresponsible, particularly given the current economic challenges Nigeria faces, including the need for major fiscal reforms to address long-standing issues.
The Road Ahead: Will Mohammed’s Strategy Pay Off?
As the political landscape continues to evolve, all eyes will be on Governor Bala Mohammed and his next steps. Will his attacks on President Tinubu help him secure the national spotlight, or will they backfire and damage his credibility? With 2027 just a few years away, political analysts say Mohammed’s political future depends on how he navigates these tumultuous waters.
