Newly appointed Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication, Daniel Bwala, has addressed recent remarks made by Senator Ali Ndume, who called for an apology over Bwala’s past criticism of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja on Monday, Bwala dismissed the need for an apology and instead called for prayers for Ndume, whom he described as going through a difficult period.
Bwala’s appointment by President Bola Tinubu last week stirred debate, given his outspoken criticism of Tinubu and the APC during the 2023 presidential campaign, when he served as a spokesperson for Atiku Abubakar. Following the announcement, Ndume demanded that Bwala apologize for opposing Kashim Shettima’s selection as Tinubu’s running mate.
Responding, Bwala clarified that he maintains a strong relationship with Vice President Shettima, despite past differences.
“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.
