Governor Bala Mohammed Cautions Against Blind Support for President Tinubu's Policies
Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State has expressed concerns over the current administration's performance, urging President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to adopt a more inclusive and development-oriented approach. Speaking in an interview with Daily Trust, the Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors Forum highlighted key areas where he believes the administration is faltering, comparing it to the development Tinubu achieved as Governor of Lagos State from 1999 to 2007.
Disappointment in Developmental Progress
Governor Mohammed voiced his initial optimism that President Tinubu would bring the same progressive governance style to the national level as he did in Lagos. However, he acknowledged that these expectations have not been met, attributing this shortfall to the absence of a strong advisory team similar to the one Tinubu had in Lagos, which included former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo and former Minister Kayode Fayemi.
“I had high hopes that when he becomes president, he would bring the same magic he brought to Lagos. But I was mistaken. Perhaps he’s overwhelmed or resistant to advice,” said Mohammed, clarifying that his remarks are not intended to insult but to offer constructive feedback.
Calls for a More Inclusive Approach and Stronger Advisory Team
Governor Mohammed stressed that he has made efforts to advise the current administration but believes these insights have not been well received. He urged President Tinubu to consider bringing back knowledgeable and experienced leaders who can provide balanced, non-partisan perspectives. According to him, national development cannot be achieved solely through partisan support and requires expertise from diverse backgrounds.
“We can’t be expected to support him blindly as his party members do. The President needs capable people to work with him, not just those who offer blind praise,” he emphasized.
Concerns Over Current Economic Policies
Governor Mohammed specifically criticized the administration’s economic policies, particularly concerning fuel prices and overall welfare strategies. He pointed out that the recent removal of the fuel subsidy has not yielded the promised benefits, as fuel costs continue to rise, putting further strain on citizens. He argued that meaningful reform is needed to address the rising costs of living, including the impact on workers’ ability to commute and afford basic goods.
“The government’s economic policies are failing to alleviate the struggles of ordinary Nigerians. We need policies that actually put food on the table,” he remarked. “If the removal of the fuel subsidy was supposed to help, we’re not seeing that.”
Addressing Issues in Governance and Policy Execution
Governor Mohammed further highlighted his disappointment in the government’s handling of critical areas such as insecurity, labor relations, and the oil and gas sector. According to him, the approach to these challenges has been largely surface-level and lacks the depth needed to produce sustainable solutions. He warned that while he has exercised restraint as a statesman, there are pressing issues that demand a more substantive approach to governance.
“Nigerians are suffering from hunger and anger. Good governance means managing people’s aspirations and minimizing discomfort. The President needs to demonstrate empathy and apply the same skills he used in Lagos on a national level,” Mohammed advised.
A Call for Leadership That Prioritizes the People's Welfare
In conclusion, Governor Mohammed urged President Tinubu to adopt policies that prioritize the welfare of Nigerians and to consider bringing back experienced leaders like Osinbajo and Fayemi, who contributed to his past success. He argued that the President should focus on assembling a team committed to good governance rather than surrounding himself with individuals who offer only blind praise.
“President Tinubu should bring back knowledgeable people, not just those who say ‘ranka dede’ (blind praise),” he stated, emphasizing that addressing the needs of the Nigerian people should be at the forefront of the administration’s agenda.
Governor Mohammed’s remarks underscore the necessity for a balanced, transparent, and inclusive approach to national leadership, particularly in times of economic and social challenges.
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