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.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo Staten has accused the state police command of complicity in the attack on its Governorship Candidate, Sen. Monday Okpebholo and the reinstated deputy governor, Philip Shaibu.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that gunmen attacked the two on Thursday while exiting Benin Airport shortly after they arrived from Abuja aboard a chartered flight.

The party, during a press conference on Friday in Benin, called for the sack of the Commissioner of Police, Funso Adegboye.

Kassim Afegbua, Director of Media, APC Campaign Council for the Sept. 21 election, said the ruthless shooting and killing of a policeman was witnessed by the police chief.

Afegbua said the party had petitioned the Inspector-General of Police to look into the case and check how the police commissioner undermined the role of the police.

According to him, some members of the party, who saw the commissioner at the airport shared the intelligence of what was about to happen, but unfortunately, he allegedly ignored it.

The director of media described the attack on the candidate as an assassination attempt as well as a disdain for peace that the state and its people were known for.

Reacting, Adegboye exonerated himself of any wrongdoing during the mayhem.

He refuted a claim that intelligence was shared with him ahead of the attack, saying there was no crisis throughout his stay at the airport.

The commissioner noted, however, that an investigation was ongoing and those whose names had been mentioned in the incident would be arrested soon.

(NAN)

The Chairman of All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo on Friday called on the reinstated deputy governor of Edo, Philips Shaibu to join the APC following the Thursday attack on his convoy at the Benin Airport.

Mr Jarrett Tenebe made the call in Benin during a solidarity visit to Shaibu to his private residence.

Tenebe, who was joined by some chieftains of the party, described the attack as a calculated attempt to allegedly take the life of the deputy governor.

“What your party (allegedly) tried to do to you was actually planned to take your life.

“As it stands today, you are the deputy governor of Edo State.

“I have brought a message of APC and after now, our flag will be hanging in your office,” Tenebe said.

Responding, Shaibu commended the APC chair for always calling to uplift his spirit since his ordeal began with the PDP.

According to him, that level of care is what is needed in leadership.

“The state chairman of the PDP never put a call to me or tried to resolve the party crisis, even when I have demonstrated that I am a core party man.

“By God’s grace, Sen. Monday Okpebholo and Dennis Idahosa of the APC will be the next governor and deputy in the state,” Shaibu declared.

(NAN)