In a dramatic political turnaround, Daniel Bwala, the former spokesperson for Atiku Abubakar’s presidential campaign, has declared that all his past criticisms of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu are now irrelevant.
Bwala, who now serves as the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Policy, made this revelation on Arise TV’s Morning Show on Tuesday, February 11, 2025. The former critic, once known for his scathing attacks on Tinubu’s leadership, stated that his views had evolved after joining the administration.
> “The opposition’s work is to criticise the sitting government and hold them accountable. My views changed after I met the President, and he saw a need to appoint me,” Bwala explained.
Bwala was once a staunch member of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) but defected in 2022 after Tinubu and Kashim Shettima emerged as the party’s Muslim-Muslim ticket for the presidency. He then joined the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), where he became a vocal advocate for Atiku Abubakar, fiercely challenging the legitimacy of Tinubu’s electoral victory.
During the 2023 general elections, Bwala was one of Tinubu’s most relentless critics, branding him a “president-select” rather than a “president-elect.” He even compared Tinubu’s administration to a “night of a thousand laughs”, portraying it as a tragic comedy of governance.
However, in a striking contrast to his past rhetoric, Bwala now appears to be one of Tinubu’s most loyal defenders. Asked about his previous statements, he downplayed them as part of political opposition tactics, saying:
> “They are not relevant.”
Since assuming his new role, Bwala has actively championed Tinubu’s policies, vehemently defending the administration he once vilified. His transformation highlights the fluidity of Nigerian politics, where former adversaries often become trusted allies.
While his newfound loyalty may raise eyebrows, Bwala seems unbothered by the contradictions, embracing his latest political reinvention with confidence.
Could this be a case of political pragmatism or a mere survival strategy? Whatever the case, Bwala’s about-face is yet another reminder that in the world of Nigerian politics, there are no permanent enemies—only permanent interests.
PIONEER NEWS 