“Opposition or Not, We Respect Tinubu’s Authority” — Gov Bala Declares

Bauchi State Governor, Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, has made it clear that political differences will not affect his government’s respect for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the authority of the Federal Government.

He said opposition status does not mean disloyalty to the Nigerian state or its institutions, especially on matters of national security.

Politics Nigeria reports that the governor spoke on Monday in Bauchi while presiding over an expanded State Security Council meeting at the Government House.

The meeting brought together heads of security agencies, top government officials, and traditional rulers from across the state.

Governor Mohammed stressed that his administration recognises the structure of Nigeria’s federal system and will continue to operate within it. According to him, cooperation with the Federal Government remains necessary for effective governance and public safety.

“We are federalists. We believe in the authority of the Federal Government, irrespective of our position as opposition. We cannot work without recognising that authority,” Bala Mohammed said.

He explained that security remains the foundation of governance and warned that no development agenda can succeed in an atmosphere of fear or instability. He noted that security agencies play a critical role and must be supported at all levels.

“Without security, there is no governance. Security agencies must work closely with our traditional rulers and local authorities to ensure effective intelligence gathering and crime prevention,” he said.

The governor praised security agencies operating in Bauchi State for their efforts, saying the state has enjoyed relative calm when compared to several other parts of the country. However, he warned that the current peace should not be taken lightly.

He pointed out that Nigeria is dealing with multiple security threats that cut across state and national boundaries, including banditry, kidnapping, cross-border crimes, and the spread of false information capable of triggering violence.

“Nigeria is facing complex security challenges such as banditry, kidnapping, cross-border crimes and misinformation. These threats are mobile and interconnected. No state is immune,” he said.

Governor Mohammed described the security council meeting as a proactive step aimed at preventing crises rather than responding after damage has been done.

He urged participants to pay close attention to early warning signs such as land disputes, unusual movements, and minor crimes that could escalate if ignored.

He also issued a strong warning to traditional rulers, reminding them that their roles come with responsibility and limits. He said any form of abuse of authority or interference with security operations would attract consequences.

“Silence in the face of crime is complicity. Traditional institutions are not parallel governments but critical partners in governance,” the governor warned.

The Bauchi governor further called for stronger collaboration among security agencies, community leaders, and residents of the state. He said intelligence sharing and community trust remain key to sustaining peace.

“Security is a shared responsibility. We must work together to ensure Bauchi does not slide into crisis. Prevention is key,” Bala Mohammed added.