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Presidential spokesman Daniel Bwala has defended his previous criticisms of President Bola Tinubu, saying they should no longer dominate public discourse because they are now “baseless” in light of current realities, while insisting they were never false.
Bwala, the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Policy Communication, made the remarks on Wednesday during an appearance on Channels Television’s ‘Politics Today’, where he responded to questions about comments he made against Tinubu before joining the administration.
Questioning the continued focus on his past statements, Bwala said Nigerians were more concerned about issues affecting their daily lives than political exchanges from the past.
“The first person that started asking me this question was you, and you have done that more than five times. Are you not tired? They are completely inconsequential to what is happening,” he told the programme’s anchor, Seun Okinbaloye.
He argued that discussions should instead focus on governance, including the economy, education, security and recent developments in Nigeria’s relations with the United States.
“We have taken almost 10 minutes on this. Nigerian people want to hear tonight what is happening to their lives. They want to know what is happening with their economy, with their education, and most importantly, with security,” Bwala said.
The presidential aide maintained that the Tinubu administration had recorded measurable progress, particularly in strengthening collaboration among Nigeria’s security agencies.
“We have made substantial progress. It is the first time in Nigeria’s history that the leadership of President Bola Tinubu has brought about very strong collaboration,” he said.
When asked whether describing his previous comments as “baseless” meant they were lies, Bwala rejected the suggestion.
“They are not lies. They are baseless. Not important for conversation,” he stated.
Bwala also accused the presenter of amplifying opposition narratives while paying less attention to similar issues involving opposition politicians.
“I’m trying my best not to be aggressive about it, but you’re riding on the opposition’s back horse,” he said.
Citing Labour Party leader Peter Obi, Bwala argued that political figures often change positions and affiliations, questioning why similar scrutiny was not applied elsewhere.
“Peter Obi has since changed parties four times. How many times have you asked their people?” he asked.
He concluded that continued debates over his past criticisms of Tinubu had become irrelevant, urging greater attention to the administration’s policies and issues directly affecting Nigerians.
