Haruna Salisu, the Publisher of WikkiTimes, a Bauchi-based media organization, has accused Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed of unprecedented nepotism and intolerance toward constructive criticism.
Salisu claimed the governor’s administration is plagued by favoritism, with key government positions being filled by relatives and close allies, undermining the principles of merit and good governance.
“To the best of my knowledge, there’s no governor in Northern Nigeria that demonstrates glaring disregard for due process and nepotism like Governor Mohammed,” the publisher said.
“Strategic ministries and agencies are being manned by the governor’s family and friends. This is not governance; it is outright nepotism.”
Salisu specifically cited the appointments of Dr. Rilwanu Mohammed and Adamu Duguri, both blood relatives of the governor, as Chairmen of the Bauchi Primary Health Care Agency and the State Universal Basic Education Board, respectively.
He argued that these roles, which manage significant developmental funds, are being exploited for personal gains.
“Everyone knows there are interventions from developmental partners running into billions of naira in these sectors. Appointing loyalists and family members to such sensitive positions only raises concerns about transparency and accountability,” Salisu added.
The publisher also accused the governor of intolerance to dissenting opinions, stating that individuals who criticize the administration are often targeted, silenced, or jailed.
“Many innocent people are victims of your clampdown on constructive criticism,” Salisu said, recounting his own arrest and imprisonment, allegedly ordered by the governor, for exposing mismanagement through WikkiTimes.
He further alleged that several youths were arrested during the 2023 general elections for posting dissenting opinions on social media, adding that Governor Mohammed’s family actively participates in vilifying critics.
The publisher also referenced the arrest and imprisonment of Dr. Idris Abdul’aziz Dutsen Tanshi, a popular Islamic scholar known for criticizing the government’s policies.
“Governor Mohammed’s administration has consistently demonstrated intolerance toward constructive criticism. Anyone who speaks out is treated as an enemy, even when their intentions are to improve governance,” Salisu said.
Highlighting further concerns, Salisu questioned the transparency of the governor’s recent trip to China, where Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) were signed with Chinese companies for mining activities in Bauchi State.
“Governor Mohammed, let us look at the 2025 budget. How much revenue is projected from the MoUs you signed in China? Why was this not included in the budget? This lack of transparency raises serious questions,” he queried.
Salisu called on the governor to provide clarity and address these issues to restore public confidence in his administration.
