From Mohammed Nasir Shuaibu BAUCHI
Bauchi state governor Bala Mohammed has decried what he described as sustained political persecution and intimidation targeted at him, his family members, and key officials, insisting that such actions will not distract his administration from delivering good governance to the people.
Speaking shortly after he signed 2026 Budget Appropriation Bill into Law, the governor lamented the irony in Nigeria’s political environment, where, according to him, genuine efforts at development are often misconstrued and politicised.
He expressed concern that despite enjoying constitutional immunity as a sitting governor, some of his commissioners and close associates have allegedly been arrested and detained without justification.
“My commissioner has been kept in custody and will not be released, even when I have immunity as a governor. My family members and officials have been treated like criminals without any reason,” he said.
The governor described the situation as a clear case of political persecution driven by intolerance and pressure to defect from his political party.
“I will not allow anybody to criminalise me simply because I refuse to join another party. I will not be forced into any political alliance,” he declared.
He further criticised what he called selective prosecution and the misuse of state institutions to intimidate political opponents, warning that such practices pose serious threats to democracy, peace, and national cohesion.
According to him, despite limited resources, his administration has continued to pursue development projects, even as the federal government controls a significant portion of national resources.
“We are accused of mismanaging resources, yet the federal government takes most of the revenue, and in my state, not even one kilometre of road has been provided,” he stated.
The governor also raised concerns over worsening insecurity in the northern part of the country, attributing it partly to rising intolerance and poor governance.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to humility, accountability, and service to the people, noting that recent recognitions and awards would not make his government arrogant.
“This recognition will not make us arrogant. Our humility and modesty will continue. We will keep using wisdom and common sense in governance,” he said.
Despite his grievances, the governor pledged continued support for the presidency and the federal government, stressing that cooperation remains essential for national development.
“We are ready to support the presidency and the federal government because we believe in federalism, good governance, and the proper utilisation of resources,” he added.
He disclosed that his government enjoys the support of development partners and the international community due to its transparent governance template and prudent use of funds.
Calling for peace and tolerance, the governor urged political actors to desist from actions that could further impoverish the common man through excessive taxation and intimidation.
“Nigeria does not need anything more than good governance. The country must be rescued from poverty, and the pains of the people must be reduced,” he said.
He concluded by reaffirming his commitment to peace, insisting that while he would not be coerced politically, his administration remains open to dialogue in the interest of stability and progress.
