Presidential Aide Daniel Bwala Defends Past Tinubu Criticism as 'All Politics'
Presidential media aide Daniel Bwala has broken his silence following intense backlash from his recent interview with Al Jazeera's Mehdi Hassan, firmly stating that all his past negative comments about President Bola Tinubu were purely "all politics." The controversy erupted after Bwala faced widespread criticism online for his apparent reversal from previously damning statements against Tinubu to now serving in his administration.
Setting the Record Straight on Al Jazeera Interview
In a detailed statement addressing the social media firestorm that erupted over the last 24 hours, Bwala explained his position clearly. "When I signed on to the privileged job granted to me by Mr. President, I was well aware of its implications," he declared. The presidential aide emphasized that seeking popularity was never his objective, stating that "selling ice cream, looking fine, and seeking the praises of men were never part of it."
Bwala defended his decision to participate in the challenging interview, noting that Head to Head producers initially contacted him to discuss government policies on security, economy, and corruption. He expressed surprise that the interview focused extensively on his past statements, claiming "nowhere in our almost six months of communication did they mention that they were going to challenge my past."
Defending Government Policies with Confidence
The presidential media adviser asserted his unwavering commitment to promoting and defending the Tinubu administration. "I am prepared to appear before any interviewer, anywhere in the world, any day and at any time, to defend this government and its policies," Bwala stated boldly. He criticized what he called Mehdi Hassan's "opposition research-style journalism," claiming many quoted sources contained inaccuracies and outright fake news.
Addressing his past criticisms directly, Bwala explained: "As for what I said about President Tinubu in the past, I am glad those were things I said when I was in the opposition saddle with such zeal. It is all politics." He drew parallels to international politics, noting that "half of Donald Trump's cabinet is made up of people who once spoke against him."
Responding to Critics and Looking Forward
Bwala dismissed most critics as opposition members and their sympathizers, suggesting their excitement over the interview was temporary. He challenged opposition parties to present their own policies, stating they "have no path to victory and no alternative policies or program for the Nigerian people."
The presidential aide concluded by thanking supporters who commended his "brave defence" of the government during what he described as a challenging interview where the anchor "would hardly let you answer a question unless it suited his narrative." Despite the controversy, Bwala expressed continued admiration for Mehdi Hassan as "arguably the best debater on the planet" and looked forward to a potential second interview focused on administration achievements.
Bwala signed off with his official title: Special Adviser to President on Media and Policy Communication (State House), reaffirming his commitment to his governmental role despite the ongoing political scrutiny.
