Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, has taken a swipe at President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Media, Sunday Dare, accusing him of unprofessional conduct and promoting divisive rhetoric.
In a strongly worded statement issued on Sunday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mukhtar Gidado, Governor Mohammed criticized Dare for turning his role into a platform for political attacks rather than fostering unity and constructive dialogue.
The statement, titled “Enough is Enough”, lambasted the Presidency for what it described as a growing intolerance for criticism.
“Instead of addressing Governor Bala Mohammed’s genuine concerns about the tax reform bills, Sunday Dare chose personal attacks and diversionary tactics. Is this how a democracy is supposed to work?” the statement queried.
Governor Mohammed’s camp also called out the timing of Dare’s remarks, which were made during Juma’at prayers and Armed Forces Remembrance Day events.
“Instead of focusing on honouring Nigeria’s fallen heroes, Dare chose to prioritise political mudslinging. Is this what the Tinubu administration represents?” the statement questioned, describing the move as disrespectful and inappropriate.
The governor’s team accused the Tinubu administration of fostering a toxic culture that stifles constructive feedback.
“This administration has shown increasing intolerance towards constructive feedback,” the statement alleged. “Governor Bala Mohammed’s concerns about national issues, including tax reforms, were met with insults rather than engagement.”
The statement also drew a parallel between Tinubu’s history as a pro-democracy activist and his administration’s approach to dissent.
“If Tinubu could criticise the system and rise to power, why is his administration trying to muzzle voices like Bala Mohammed who are only doing the same?” the statement argued.
A Warning To Dare
In a subtle yet firm tone, the statement ended with a warning directed at Sunday Dare.
“We respect the Office of the President, but respect does not mean silence. Governor Bala Mohammed will continue to speak up for Nigerians, whether they like it or not. Enough is enough,” it declared.