The newly appointed Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication, Daniel Bwala, has responded to Senator Ali Ndume’s call for him to apologise for his past criticisms of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Ndume had urged Bwala to express regret for his previous stance, particularly his opposition to the selection of Senator Kashim Shettima as President Bola Tinubu’s running mate in the 2023 elections.
However, during his first media briefing at the Aso Rock Villa on Monday following his appointment, Bwala dismissed the suggestion. He stated that he maintains a “fantastic” relationship with Vice President Kashim Shettima.
“Ordinarily, I would not have responded to his issue because when I was referred to what he said, I immediately contacted the Vice President. We both cracked jokes about that. I have a very fantastic relationship with the Vice President, which even started before the judgment of the court was delivered regarding the matter.
“The relationship became stronger in the build-up to the emergence of the leadership of the National Assembly. Since then, we’ve been having a very good relationship.
“But I know that the senator in question is having some troubled times; all I can say is that we need to pray for him, for God to guide and help him. But we are focused on the work of the President. It’s not about Bwala. It’s about the president,” he said.
Daniel Bwala has officially assumed the role of Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Media and Public Communication, succeeding Ajuri Ngelale, who went on indefinite leave in September.
Bwala’s appointment has generated significant debate due to his previous position as spokesperson for Atiku Abubakar’s 2023 presidential campaign and his outspoken criticism of Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress (APC).
With this appointment, Bwala becomes the third Special Adviser to the President in media-related capacities, joining veteran journalist Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, and former Sports Minister Sunday Dare, Special Adviser on Public Communication and Orientation.
Responding to worries about role overlap, Bwala stated, “There is no issue with the variances in terms of responsibilities. Everyone understands their responsibility. I’m not here to define anyone else’s duty because that would be gaslighting.
“I merely came to introduce myself and the position that Mr. President assigned me. I informed you that post was formerly held by Ajuri Ngelale, but for God’s sake, we’re all coworkers. We’re not especially concerned with who is this or who is that. We are working to meet Mr. President’s mandate.”
