In a recent nationwide broadcast, President Bola Tinubu did not consult with state governors beforehand, leading to criticism from Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed.
Governor Mohammed expressed disappointment, stating that the President’s speech failed to reflect the actual situation on the ground and highlighted a significant gap between the government and the people.
Speaking to journalists after an emergency security council meeting in Bauchi, Governor Mohammed addressed the recent events in Katagum LGA, where unrest led to a 24-hour curfew being imposed.
Responding to questions about the President’s address, Governor Mohammed remarked, “I’m not a spokesperson for the Presidency, but the President’s speech was lacking substance. It only served to escalate tensions instead of seeking input from governors, who are the frontline leaders at the state level.”
Regarding the vandalism in Katagum LGA, Governor Mohammed emphasized that the state government is actively engaging with all stakeholders, including security agencies, traditional institutions, and religious groups, to address the situation.
He reassured the state’s residents that measures are being taken to prevent the #EndBadGovernmentinNigeria protests from spiraling out of control and urged everyone to maintain peace and stability.
According to Governor Mohammed, the peaceful protests signify a widespread belief that governments at all levels have failed in fulfilling their constitutional duties.