Haruna Salisu, the publisher of WikkiTimes, a Bauchi-based media platform, has accused Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State of nepotism and intolerance in the administration of the state.
Salisu alleged that Governor Mohammed has shown a pattern of silencing critics, often resorting to imprisonment or other forms of suppression. He specifically highlighted the governor’s nepotistic tendencies, citing the appointments of Dr. Rilwanu Mohammed and Adamu Duguri as Chairmen of the Bauchi Primary Healthcare Agency and the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), respectively. Both appointees are reportedly the governor’s blood relatives.
The publisher described the situation as deeply concerning, emphasizing that key government positions are disproportionately filled by the governor’s family members and close associates. He argued that such practices undermine due process and public trust.
“Strategic ministries are being headed by your family and loyalists. For instance, the Primary Healthcare Agency is led by your relative, a move clearly aimed at ensuring control over funds from developmental partners. This is a blatant avenue for siphoning public funds,” Salisu said.
He further accused Governor Mohammed of being one of the most nepotistic governors in Northern Nigeria, noting that his administration disregards constructive criticism.
Salisu also brought attention to the plight of youths who were arrested during the 2023 general elections for sharing dissenting views on Facebook. According to him, the governor treats critics as enemies, and his family reportedly supports this stance by targeting those who expose alleged misconduct in his administration.
“Many innocent individuals have fallen victim to your clampdown on free speech. I was personally arrested and jailed for exposing the wrongdoings of your administration through my work at WikkiTimes,” Salisu added.
The publisher also questioned the governor’s recent trip to China, during which he signed Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with Chinese companies for mineral resource mining. Salisu challenged the governor to explain how these agreements would benefit the people of Bauchi State, pointing out the absence of any projected revenue from these activities in the 2025 state budget.
“Why is there no mention of expected revenue from these MOUs in the 2025 budget? This omission raises concerns about potential corruption,” he argued.
Salisu also criticized the governor for targeting religious leaders who voiced dissent. He cited the case of Dr. Idris Abdul’aziz Dutsen Tanshi, a prominent Islamic scholar who was arrested and jailed for criticizing the administration.
The allegations paint a troubling picture of governance in Bauchi State, raising questions about transparency, accountability, and respect for dissenting voices under Governor Mohammed’s leadership.
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