Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, has issued a strong declaration that he will not be coerced or intimidated into joining the All Progressives Congress (APC). He alleges that the Federal Government is weaponizing institutions like the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to target and prosecute individuals not aligned with the ruling party. Governor Mohammed stated emphatically that he will not permit anyone to criminalize him simply for his refusal to defect to the APC, ending a period of silence and vowing to speak out.
This firm stance was articulated shortly after the Governor was honored as a Safety Ambassador by the Safety Institute of Nigeria at the Government House in Bauchi. He indicated that this recognition serves as vindication against accusations of arbitrary governance, persecutions, and blame. Governor Mohammed further criticized the APC-led Federal Government for what he described as neglect of Bauchi State, pointing out the lack of federal infrastructure development, including roads and water projects, despite the state contributing significantly to national resources.
“We have a country where 51 percent of the resources of the country is taken by the Federal Government. In my state, they have not provided 1 kilometer of road, they have not provided water, even the security agencies, I’m the one paying them to work for us; and they have the guts to talk,” Governor Mohammed asserted. He lamented the current state of politics in Nigeria but expressed optimism that individuals like Mr. Malgui and his colleagues offer hope for the nation’s future. He suggested that divine intervention often protects those facing unjust prosecution, especially when their actions are in the best interest of their constituents.
“This is a country where, when you work, you become a villain, you become an idiot,” he observed. The Governor explained his previous quietude as a strategic choice for peace and security, emphasizing that politicians should not unnecessarily escalate political tensions. However, he clarified that his silence does not stem from cowardice but a desire to protect the common people. He believes that ascension to power should not necessitate the denigration of others.
“The APC led Federal Government feel they can use the courts, the institution of government, like the EFCC to persecute and prosecute Nigerians that are not within their own party. If they don’t stop, we’re going to declare war. I assure you that we’re not going to keep quiet any longer. I won’t allow anybody to criminalize me because I’m not in their party and I refuse to join their party, and I will not join their party. My family members, my officials are being taken like anything and are being locked up without any reason,” he declared, highlighting the severe personal and professional repercussions faced by those who oppose the ruling party.
“This award inspired me to talk, I didn’t want to talk but we still hope in the courts and in Nigerians. I thank the institute for this opportunity and I assure you, it is not going to make us arrogant, our humility and modesty will continue. We will little resources to do things and leave legacies and landmarks that will make Nigerians proud and no Jupiter will stop us from doing this,” he continued, reiterating his commitment to service despite external pressures.
Governor Mohammed, who also chairs the Peoples Democratic Party Governors’ Forum, expressed bewilderment at accusations of terrorism leveled against him, particularly as a prominent opposition figure and the Chief Security Officer of his state. The governor’s commissioner of finance has also been detained by the EFCC, a situation he finds particularly egregious given his own gubernatorial immunity.
He appealed to the Federal Government to reconsider the implementation of a new tax regime scheduled for January 1st, arguing that it would further impovery the common man and sub-national governments, despite its perceived flaws. He contrasted the security situation in Bauchi, which he described as superior to that in other northern states due to community engagement and tolerance, with the national political climate, which he characterized by significant intolerance from the Federal Government.
“We thank you most sincerely, convey our appreciation to your organization. We don’t need anything more than good governance. Nigerians should be bailed out of poverty. There should be reduction of pain. We are ready to support the presidency and the Federal Government to work because we are federalists,” he stated, emphasizing a willingness to collaborate for the nation’s betterment.
He listed the achievements of his administration, including advancements in the health and primary education sectors, and recognition from the Federal Government for urban development and good governance. This makes the current accusations seem paradoxical, according to the Governor.
“What they want us to do is to join them, we will not join them. If they want war, I have said it, we will give them, if they want peace, we will give them peace,” the Governor concluded, issuing a stark choice between conflict and cooperation.
Earlier, Haruna Malgwi, a Life member of the Safety Institute of Nigeria, commended Governor Mohammed’s administration for prioritizing the safety of Bauchi State residents across various service delivery points. He outlined the institute’s rigorous criteria for selecting an ambassador, including occupational health, citizen safety, environmental protection, and general security, all of which the Governor has demonstrably met.
Featured snippet paragraph: Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed stated he will not join the APC due to alleged persecution by federal institutions like the EFCC. He claims the Federal Government neglects his state despite its resource contributions and is using its power to intimidate opposition figures.
Governor Mohammed’s refusal to join the APC is a significant political statement, highlighting the perceived pressures faced by opposition leaders in Nigeria. His defense of his administration’s performance and his critique of federal policies underscore the ongoing political discourse and power dynamics within the country.
His assertion that he has been a victim of arbitrary accusations, including being labeled a terrorist, points to a broader pattern of political weaponization. The Governor’s commitment to his current party, the PDP, and his role as Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum solidify his position as a key figure in the opposition.
The award from the Safety Institute of Nigeria is presented as a counterpoint to the negative allegations, serving as a testament to his leadership in areas of public safety and welfare.
Mohammed’s address also touched upon economic concerns, specifically the upcoming tax regime, which he believes will exacerbate poverty. This indicates a focus on the socio-economic impact of government policies beyond just political affiliations.
The governor’s final declaration of readiness for either “war” or “peace” reflects a hardening of his stance, suggesting that dialogue and cooperation are preferred, but he is prepared for confrontation if necessary.
Armstrong Bakam.
