THE Minister of Foreign Affairs Yusuf Tuggar has revealed the cause of the conflict with Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed and his Deputy, Muhammad Auwal Jatau.
On April 19, Tuggar was part of a delegation escorting Vice-President Kashim Shettima to Bauchi.
Shortly after arrival, reports emerged claiming that Deputy Governor Jatau slapped Tuggar on a bus traveling from Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa International Airport to the Emir of Bauchi’s palace, allegedly after Tuggar made disparaging remarks about the governor.
Jatau has denied these allegations.
Speaking to BBC Hausa, Tuggar clarified that the issue actually began with Governor Bala Mohammed during the Vice President’s visit.
He said, “While traveling with the Vice President, the Governor interrupted a conversation between the Vice President and me, which did not concern him.
“He then insulted my late father and threatened to slap me.
“I stood up to show him that he could not intimidate me. His deputy rushed from the back, threatening to slap me as well, but he never got close—especially with the Vice President present.”
Tuggar noted that the security personnel on board were brought from Abuja, not Bauchi.
He also denied any physical altercation occurred, explaining the governor only threatened a slap but could not follow through.
Tuggar accused the governor’s son of spreading false claims online that the deputy governor slapped him.
Tuggar said, “The Deputy Governor later admitted the story was false and offered a different explanation.”
Regarding speculation that the clash resulted from Tuggar’s rumored ambition to run for Bauchi governor, he said, “Whether or not I intend to run, I always speak the truth when necessary. This issue affects my local government and hometown, Udubo.”
Tuggar attributed the dispute to frustrations over how Governor Bala’s administration is managing the state.
He criticised the government’s takeover of farmlands and grazing areas, handing them to companies under the guise of agricultural development.
“This displaces farmers and herders, pushing some toward criminal activities,” he said.
Tuggar questioned the state’s development progress, noting Bauchi is not leading in grain production or cattle rearing as claimed.
Both Tuggar and Deputy Governor Jatau come from Bauchi North Senatorial District, a region yet to produce a governor since 1999.
While Tuggar has not officially announced any gubernatorial bid for 2027, there are strong indications he might be interested.
