Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, has shed light on a longstanding rift with the Governor of Bauchi State, Senator Bala Mohammed, revealing how he remained calm and dignified in the face of verbal threats during a recent high-profile visit to the state.
In an interview with the BBC Hausa Service on Thursday, Ambassador Tuggar recounted an incident that occurred during Vice President Kashim Shettima’s visit to Bauchi on April 19. According to the Minister, a disagreement broke out while he was engaged in a conversation with the Vice President aboard a bus transporting dignitaries from Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa International Airport to the Emir’s palace.
The bus had onboard several prominent figures, including Vice President Shettima, Ambassador Tuggar, Governor Bala Mohammed, Deputy Governor Muhammad Auwal Jatau, and other senior officials.
Amid the exchange, Ambassador Tuggar stated that Governor Mohammed rudely interrupted his conversation with the Vice President and proceeded to make derogatory remarks, even going so far as to insult the memory of the Minister’s late father.
Despite the provocation, the Minister maintained his poise. “I didn’t see how he could beat or slap me, so I also stood up to stop him,” he said. “Then his deputy came from the back of the bus saying he too would slap me, but he couldn’t get close, especially with the Vice President right there.”
Ambassador Tuggar’s account underscores his restraint and sense of responsibility in the face of hostility. Observers have also lauded the Minister’s calm demeanor, noting that his conduct reflects the discipline and tact expected of a senior diplomat serving the nation at the highest level of international engagement.
