Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed has said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has failed to bring about the development achieved when he served as Lagos State Governor from 1999 to 2007.
In an interview with Daily Trust published on Saturday, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors Forum Chairman said he tried to advise the current administration on its policies but Tinubu seemed resistant to advice.
Governor Bauchi, while paying tribute to Tinubu, admitted that he was wrong to expect him to bring the same magic that he brought to Lagos.
He said Tinubu performed well in Lagos when he led a team that included former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo and former Minister Kayode Fayemi.
Bala Mohammed wondered why the two were not involved in the Tinubu administration, stressing that the president should bring back those who are knowledgeable and not just those who are ready to blindly praise them. .
He said: “The NEC is an advisory body headed by the Vice President. As governors, we can express our views but in many cases we are dissatisfied. What I have said is an insult to President Tinubu. I had no intention of doing so. I have a lot of respect for him. He has mentored many people across Nigeria, regardless of state or religion. I hope he will bring this to Lagos when he becomes president. I had high hopes that he would bring the same magic that he did. But I was wrong. Perhaps he is overwhelmed or resistant to advice.
“When I said his policies are not working, I spoke as an opposition member. I cannot be expected to support him blindly like members of his party. In fact, as a politician I , has shown considerable restraint in not saying anything that could cause a national crisis. However, there are serious problems with his administration – the oil and gas sector, and actual action on insecurity. superficial economic policies, handling of labor issues, and overall approach to governance.
“Government’s economic policies, especially those on fuel and the welfare of our people, are not working. I am saying this modestly, our monetary policy is failing. President Tinubu, working with me We need to bring in competent people, especially experts from across the country, not me.Nigerians are suffering from hunger and anger, and good governance is about managing people’s aspirations and minimizing discomfort. means.
“Even if removing fuel subsidies was supposed to help, we don’t see that happening. What we need are policies that actually put food on the table, even if we pay the minimum wage. , that’s not reassuring. That’s why he called for a review. And maybe he’s looking to review things, but the continued rise in fuel prices suggests otherwise. How can workers afford to commute? How can they afford basic necessities like a bag of corn?
“President Tinubu needs to show empathy and apply the same skills he used in Lagos at the national level. We had a team, but where are they now? They should bring back the knowledgeable people, not just the ones who say “ranka dede” (blind praise). That’s what I’m advocating. ”
