Tensions Soar As Bauchi Governor Denies Role In Alleged Coup Plot, Faces Minister’s Criticism

Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, and Nigeria’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, have engaged in a heated exchange of accusations, each criticizing the other’s performance in office.

In a BBC Hausa interview, Governor Mohammed took aim at Minister Tuggar, accusing him of mishandling Nigeria’s diplomatic affairs, particularly the federal government’s response to military coups in neighboring countries and delays in ambassadorial appointments. Mohammed expressed disappointment, remarking, “It’s disappointing that the minister is our son,” and suggested that Tuggar focus on addressing his own perceived shortcomings before criticizing others.

The governor also voiced dissatisfaction with the Tinubu administration, specifically regarding the ongoing tax reform bills in the National Assembly.

Tuggar quickly responded in a BBC Hausa interview, accusing Governor Mohammed of financial mismanagement in Bauchi State. He alleged that the governor allocated state land to family members, friends, and allies. “Bauchi State received over ₦8.8 billion in October and ₦9 billion in November, but there is nothing to show for it,” Tuggar said, also criticizing the governor’s land allocation practices.

The minister dismissed Mohammed’s criticisms regarding his handling of military coups in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, noting that these events occurred prior to his appointment and before President Tinubu’s administration. “How could you then buck the blame on me? Was I the one who engineered the coup?” Tuggar questioned