The Presidency has confirmed that President Bola Tinubu is set to undertake a cabinet reshuffle soon, with the changes expected to happen any moment.

Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, revealed this during a briefing with State House correspondents on Wednesday at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

While Onanuga could not specify whether the reshuffle would take place before October 1, he emphasised that it is “expected to happen anytime soon.”

President Tinubu, who appointed his ministers in August last year, has faced growing calls for a cabinet reshuffle from members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the public, citing poor performance by some ministers.

The reshuffle, if it occurs, is anticipated to address concerns over the effectiveness of the current administration’s leadership team.

Gov Fintiri Condemns ‘Shameful’ Edo Election, Accuses APC of Undermining Democracy

Governor Ahmadu Umar Fintiri of Adamawa State has expressed deep concern over the conduct of the recent Edo gubernatorial election, describing it as a “shameful” affront to Nigeria’s democracy.

In a statement made on his verified X page on Sunday, Fintiri lambasted the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) for allegedly compromising the election process and resorting to intimidation tactics.

“I weep for Nigeria’s democracy after witnessing the shameful Edo gubernatorial poll,” the governor stated, accusing APC of desperate efforts to deflect from the real issues by falsely claiming he announced election results.

“I merely shared results from INEC’s Irev portal, as collated by INEC from the various Local Government Areas,” he clarified.

Fintiri also criticized the APC’s national chairman for arriving in Edo on election day via a private jet, in defiance of movement restrictions, and accused the party’s governors of using armoured escorts to intimidate voters.

“This blatant disregard for democratic norms is the real brigandage,” Fintiri said, adding that Nigerians are outraged by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for allegedly compromising and favouring APC.

He highlighted reports of vote-buying, disruption of collation processes, and suspicious results, including more votes than accredited voters, as evidence that trust in the electoral process has been severely undermined.

“Democracy indeed is under attack,” the governor warned, calling on Nigerians to condemn what he termed the “rape of democracy” and to demand accountability from those responsible.

“The world is watching, and Nigeria deserves better,” he concluded.

Governor Fintiri’s strong statement has further fueled the ongoing debate about the integrity of the Edo gubernatorial election, sparking calls for urgent electoral reforms.

With Tinubu’s Spokesperson Missing in Action, Dr. Daniel Bwala Emerges as the Ideal Successor to Represent the President’s Vision

By Zachariah C. Hyellamada

The office of the presidential spokesperson is one that requires not only a sharp mind but also a strong sense of political acumen and a deep understanding of Nigeria’s complex socio-political landscape. Dr. Daniel Bwala, with his vast experience spanning nearly two decades in law, politics, and media, stands out as the most capable candidate to succeed Chief Ajuri Ngelale in this role.

Having represented diverse political ideologies, he is well-positioned to defend and promote the policies of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu with a balanced, informed, and strategic approach.

Critics have raised concerns about Dr. Bwala’s return to the APC after his brief departure to the PDP. It is important to emphasize that Bwala’s decision to initially leave the APC was based on principles, driven by his concerns over the adoption of a Muslim-Muslim ticket, which did not align with his Christian faith, as a minority christian from the Northeast region. In a nation where religious balance is traditionally observed in ticket formation, his departure was a demonstration of integrity, not disloyalty. His criticism of the party at that time was neither reckless nor ill-founded; it was the voice of a man who was unwilling to compromise his values.

However, Bwala’s recent support of President Tinubu’s policies highlights his ability to rise above personal grievances for the greater good. He has commended the president’s pro-masses policies and has shifted his loyalty back to the APC, recognizing the sound leadership and direction of this administration. His return to the APC is not a sign of inconsistency, but rather a demonstration of flexibility and pragmatism, qualities that are essential for someone serving as a spokesperson for the presidency.

In an era where Nigeria faces divisions along ethnic and religious lines, Bwala’s background and principles offer a unifying voice. His stance on balancing faith with political decisions can help bridge the gap between communities, providing the administration with a spokesperson who can address issues of national unity with credibility. His ability to articulate these complex dynamics, especially at a time when narratives around religion and politics are heavily scrutinized, makes him a vital asset to the presidency.

While it is true that certain elements within the PDP, Labour Party, and individuals under different guises have expressed reservations about Bwala’s appointment, it is clear that these objections are politically motivated. These factions recognize that Bwala’s appointment would strengthen the president’s administration, given his eloquence, credibility, and political savviness. The president must not be swayed by these parochial interests, as appointing Bwala would serve as a statement that competence, experience, and loyalty to Nigeria’s future are valued above political machinations.

Beyond being a spokesperson, Bwala’s strategic insight into both legal and political matters will provide the presidency with an advisor who can contribute to shaping the narrative in a way that is favorable to the administration’s objectives. His understanding of national and international politics ensures that Nigeria’s image will be projected positively under his stewardship as spokesperson.

Dr. Daniel Bwala is the right candidate at the right time. His experience, integrity, and renewed commitment to the APC align with the administration’s vision for a stronger, more united Nigeria. In the face of baseless opposition, the president should confidently appoint him, knowing that Bwala will bring wisdom, eloquence, and a steady hand to the task of representing the presidency on the national and international stage.

Zachariah C. Hyellamada is a member of the 7-man strategic committee of the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Vanguard and the National Leader of the Assembly of the Northern Youth Influencers.