The Governor of Bauchi State, Bala Mohammed, has dismissed claims that he is linked to terrorism or any criminal activity.
The governor spoke on Wednesday at the Executive Chambers at the Bauchi State Government House while receiving an Award of Excellence as a Safety Ambassador from the Safety Institute of Nigeria.
He expressed shock over claims against him, saying, “I was just waking up to the realisation that I was told that I’ve been accused of terrorism as a Governor.”
While accepting the award, Mohammed said, “I’ve been an ambassador of safety. I didn’t know it was a big thing until the eloquent presenter spoke. I am so delighted that I am receiving this on behalf of the people of Bauchi State.”
He added that the recognition belonged to the people of the state.
The governor also complained about what he described as unfair treatment by federal institutions.
According to him, “Even when I have immunity as a Governor, my name was stupendously mentioned in a motion in the formal law court in Nigeria.”
Mohammed said he had remained quiet for the sake of peace but could no longer do so.
“I have kept quiet for too long. It is because of peace and security, but I am not a coward,” he said.
Speaking on governance and security, the governor noted that Bauchi State remains peaceful despite challenges in the North.
“There is no security in the Northern part of the country more than that we have in Bauchi state,” he said,