Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, has voiced strong criticism regarding President Bola Tinubu’s recent nationwide address, expressing discontent over what he perceives as a lack of consultation with state governors before the speech.
Mohammed’s remarks come amidst escalating unrest in his state, particularly in Katagum Local Government Area, where recent protests have led to significant property damage and heightened security concerns.
Mohammed, addressing journalists at the Government House in Bauchi, did not mince words about his dissatisfaction with President Tinubu’s broadcast.
According to Mohammed, the speech failed to address the realities faced by the states and highlighted a significant disconnect between the federal government and the local populace.
“I’m not a spokesperson of the Presidency, but I certainly know that the President’s speech was very empty,” Mohammed stated.
He argued that the President’s address exacerbated the situation rather than providing any substantive solutions or showing empathy toward the grievances of the citizens.
Mohammed criticized the absence of consultation with state governors, who he believes are crucial in understanding and addressing local issues.
He emphasised that governors, as the primary leaders at the sub-national level, should have been involved in formulating responses to the current unrest.
“The President should have listened to the governors, who are his first line of charge and commanders at the sub-national level, so that we could provide him with accurate information about the situation on the ground,” Mohammed added.
He pointed out that effective communication between federal and state authorities is essential for addressing the nation’s pressing issues.
The criticism of the President’s speech comes at a time of heightened tension in Bauchi State, particularly in Katagum LGA. Following recent protests against perceived bad governance, the state government has imposed a 24-hour curfew in Katagum.
This action was prompted by violent incidents in Azare, the headquarters of Katagum, where protesters vandalized government properties, including the Government House Annex and the residence of a former deputy governor.
Shops were looted, and significant damage was inflicted on local infrastructure.
Mohammed convened an emergency security council meeting involving various stakeholders, including security agencies, traditional leaders, and religious groups. The meeting aimed to address the immediate security challenges and prevent further escalation of the unrest.
Governor Mohammed assured the residents of Bauchi State that his administration is committed to maintaining peace and stability despite the ongoing nationwide protests.
He urged citizens to remain law-abiding and exercise restraint, emphasizing the importance of sustainable peace in overcoming the current challenges.
“The peaceful protest is a clear demonstration that government at all levels has failed in the discharge of constitutional and statutory responsibilities,” Mohammed remarked.
He stressed that the protests reflect broader issues of governance and accountability, which need to be addressed for the country to move forward effectively.
The nationwide protests, which are part of the #EndBadGovernanceinNigeria movement, have drawn significant attention and criticism.
Citizens across various states have taken to the streets to express their dissatisfaction with the government’s handling of critical issues, including security, infrastructure, and economic management.
The movement highlights the deepening frustration among Nigerians regarding perceived failures in governance and the urgent need for reform.
