By Abubakar Yunusa
The North East Unity Forum (NEUF) has urged Sunday Dare, Special Adviser to the President on Public Communication and Orientation, to prioritize the plight of ordinary Nigerians and counsel President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to adopt more humane policies.
This call follows Dare’s accusation of Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed of engaging in “irresponsible politics” by persistently criticizing the controversial tax reform bills.
The bills, introduced in 2023, have sparked widespread debate and opposition.
Despite recommendations by the National Economic Council (NEC), chaired by Vice-President Kashim Shettima, for their withdrawal and further consultation, President Tinubu has opted to move forward with the reforms.
Governor Mohammed has been a vocal opponent of the bills, describing them as detrimental to the interests of northern Nigeria. He has emphasized their adverse effects on an already struggling population.
In a statement signed by NEUF Chairman Comrade Yusuf Umar, the group lashed out at Dare, accusing him of ignoring the harsh realities faced by Nigerians.
“The spokesman should face the reality of the masses and advise the president to focus on humane policies rather than policies empowering a select few,” the statement read.
The group lauded Governor Mohammed for speaking the “minds of the masses in northern Nigeria” and criticized the Tinubu administration for what it described as policies that have led to widespread hunger, economic hardship, and social instability.
“We re-echo the governor’s position as the voice of the average Northerner whose life has been subjected to subjugation, threat, hunger, fear, melancholy, and trauma,” the statement added.
NEUF also warned that President Tinubu’s administration risks losing public support ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“2027 is just around the corner. We and other youth coalitions will ensure that the president does not return for a second term if this level of insensitivity continues.”
The forum also praised Governor Mohammed for his developmental strides in Bauchi State, describing him as a leader who has uplifted the masses and championed egalitarian policies.
They accused Dare of being out of touch with the realities in Bauchi, stating that the governor enjoys widespread support among his people.
NEUF urged the president to reconsider his economic policies, which they claim have resulted in the collapse of businesses, loss of livelihoods, and increased hardship across the country.
“This administration must listen to the outcry of Nigerians and change course before the 2027 elections,” the group warned.
