By Misbahu Shehu
Governor Bala Mohammed’s attack on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is a naked display of political opportunism and dubious grandstanding designed to advance his misplaced 2027 presidential ambition. Governor Mohammed and his ilk pride themselves in divisive politics even in the face of glaring economic sabotage occasioned by the national protests that have inflicted disastrous impacts on the nation. While all men of goodwill at this critical moment in our nation’s development struggle are galvanizing support to inspire confidence and purposeful leadership to overcome the challenges confronting the nation the likes of Governor Mohammed are sneaking their primitive devilish agenda into the national psyche to further create chaos and sow seeds of discord in the polity. It is a shame that despite the increased allocation to states accruing from the economic policies of President Tinubu, Governor Mohammed is unable to provide quality leadership to support the strides of the current administration instead he is bent on pulling the government down to achieve his impious agenda. The citizens of Bauchi State and indeed Nigerians, in general, should ask Governor Mohammed what has been doing with the huge allocations he receives monthly from the federation account.
Governor Bala Mohamed’s diatribe is a pervasive escapist strategy intended to divert attention and public scrutiny of his failings as the governor of Bauchi State who has the responsibility to provide quality governance to his state and people. But Nigerians are wiser and know the true source of their underdevelopment; it is the incompetence of the likes of Governor Bala Mohammed that is responsible for the decades of impoverishment that has besieged the land. In 2023 Governor Bala Mohammed admitted and expressed concern regarding his state’s position as having the highest number of out-of-school children in the country. According to the MICS 2021 survey, Bauchi State alone has over half a million children who are reported to be out of school in Nigeria. A governor facing this unprecedented level of backwardness should not be the one casting aspersions on the integrity of President Tinubu’s policies and administration that is determined to change the years of decadence that Governor Bala Mohammed and his cohorts have been unable to address for decades. Governor Bala Mohammed and his likes should drop their heads in shame for enabling this unquantifiable level of underdevelopment in the country.
One of the cornerstones of President Tinubu’s administration has been his commitment to economic reform and national stability. In a country plagued by economic challenges, Tinubu has implemented policies aimed at revitalizing the economy, reducing dependency on oil, and promoting diversification. These reforms, though painful in the short term, are essential for the long-term prosperity of Nigeria. Governor Mohamed’s attack conveniently overlooks these efforts, opting instead to paint a picture of doom and gloom. This is not only misleading but also irresponsible. The governor should remember that leadership involves making tough decisions, and President Tinubu has not shied away from doing so in the interest of the nation.
What is most troubling about Governor Mohamed’s attack is its potential to sow division. At a time when Nigeria needs unity, such divisive rhetoric is not just unhelpful but dangerous. President Tinubu has consistently advocated for national cohesion, bringing together diverse groups to work towards common goals. Mohamed’s attempt to stoke regional and ethnic tensions is a cynical ploy that Nigerians must reject. The country’s progress depends on leaders who prioritize unity over division, and President Tinubu has proven himself to be such a leader.
In conclusion, Governor Bala Mohammed’s attack on President Tinubu is a regrettable display of political brinkmanship. It is high time that Nigerian leaders, including Governor Mohamed, move away from destructive criticism and instead focus on constructive engagement. Nigeria faces significant challenges that require the collective effort of all its leaders. President Tinubu has shown a willingness to engage, to reform, and to lead. It is incumbent upon others to rise to the occasion, not to drag the nation into unnecessary conflict. Nigerians deserve better than what Governor Mohamed has offered in his recent diatribe. It is time to focus on the future and work together to build the Nigeria we all desire.
Misbahu Shehu writes from No 15 Mallam Yakubu Road Near Wambai Gate, Bauchi, Bauchi State.
