The presidency on Friday cautioned Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State over his sustained criticism of the tax reform bills before the National Assembly.

Sunday Dare, Special Adviser to the President, Media and Public Communication, said in a statement that attempts to abort the tax bills must be regarded as undemocratic and self-serving.

Mr Dare urged the governor to face governance and stop using Mr Tinubu to burnish his image.

“Governor Bala is playing irresponsible politics. Rather, he should occupy himself with dealing with the many problems of his state. Ambition is made of sterner stuff,” said Mr Dare.

Days ago, Mr Mohammad advised Mr Tinubu against passing the reform, saying it would make it difficult for northern governors to pay salaries to workers. The governor had also said the bills were an invitation to anarchy.

However, Mr Dare said the president was clear that anyone or groups that felt strongly about the bills before the National Assembly should take advantage of the legislative process.

“The question to Governor Bala Mohammed by journalists is to know what he is doing to make life better for the people of Bauchi State,” said Mr Dare. “How well has he, as the governor, used the increased resources at his disposal to improve the quality of life of his people?”

Mr Dare said Mr Tinubu’s administration was focused on development issues and how to improve the overall well-being of Nigerians.

“The focus of this government is on how to build stronger collaborations with sub-nationals and other critical stakeholders on matters that affect the lives of Nigerians.

“President Tinubu won an election and secured a national mandate from Nigerians, and he will not surrender that to satisfy the palate of some psuedo activists and later day crusaders.

“President Tinubu is a listening leader and also a leader that strongly believes in the institutions of the state,” said Mr Dare.

According to him, Mr Tinubu is focused on revamping the economy and working to turn the country’s economic fortunes around.

“Nigerians have started to see the real impact of reforms of the Tinubu administration, and better outcomes will continue to manifest in the lives of the citizens in the weeks and months ahead,” said Mr Dare.

(NAN)