Nigerians have criticised the Special Adviser to the President on Public Communications and Media, Daniel Bwala, following his appointment by President Bola Tinubu.
Chronicle NG reports that Tinubu on Thursday appointed Bwala, the spokesperson for the Atiku Abubakar campaign in 2023, as his special adviser on public communications and media.
This was announced by Bayo Onanuga, special adviser to the president on information and strategy, in a statement on Thursday.
Speaking on his appointment in a statement on X on Thursday, Bwala appreciated the president for having “confidence and trust” in him.
Describing the president as a “father,” Bwala mentioned that it is an honour to work and serve Nigeria in that capacity.
His statement reads, ”I want to express my profound gratitude to Mr. President @officialABAT for the demonstration of confidence and trust by this appointment.” I am indeed humbled and honoured to be called to serve our dear nation under the esteemed leadership of a courageous C-in-C and father.”
In the buildup to the 2023 elections, Bwala dumped the All Progressives Congress (APC) to join the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
The lawyer had said that he was committed to supporting Tinubu’s administration to succeed.
However, during a visit to the president, the lawyer said if supporting the president would take him back to the APC, “so be it.”
Reacting to his appointment, Nigerians on social media claimed Bwala speaks from both sides of his mouth.
It will also be recalled that the new Special Adviser is infamous for criticising the APC, saying, “The human brain is unique and miraculous. It works and functions optically 24 hours a day, 365 days a year until you join APC, then it stops working.”
Also, in a statement on December 26, 2023, while criticising Tinubu, Bwala said, “Even if you give Tinubu 30 years, nothing will work in Nigeria.”
Following his appointment by Tinubu, Nigerians questioned his loyalty and integrity, alleging that he has returned to the “vomit” like the proverbial dog.
This publication highlights below some of the reactions of Nigerians to his appointment.
Micheal Ogwo, “Congratulations Bwala on your appointment as a special advisor to the president. You defeated all APC thugs, the accusations of ballot box theft, election violence and rigging, and various fraud claims associated with the APC and 2023 general elections.
“You’ve risen to a prominent position in the administration you did not work for, and I consider you one of the luckiest individuals in this government.
“Despite your dedication and support for Atiku, it seems that those who fought for the APC and did the dirty work were not deemed worthy of such appointments. In fact, it appears that the APC lost one vote, as you voted Atiku. What an irony of life. Congratulations again, Bwala.”
Yemtech, “Finally, your hard work has finally paid off. Let’s quickly put this screenshot here for you even though it makes no difference to you.”
Izu, “You’re just an educated MC Oluomo in my books. Nothing special about you.”
Inspired qoute, “How can Nigerians respect you when it comes to integrity, philosophy, and ideology as a youth or public office holder? Because of what will enter your belly and pocket and also feed your ego, you will say one thing in the morning and another thing in the night. Finally, your double standards have paid you.
“Stomach infrastructure, young leader. Nigeria is in trouble because its citizens can sell their conscience, ideology, and philosophy for personal gain. Nigeria is in trouble.”
Dr. Felele “Some humans are indeed a fascinating bunch-fickle to the core.
“Today, we criticise; tomorrow, we collaborate. It’s almost as if we have a built-in feature for changing our minds. People can be quick to point fingers, only to turn around and shake hands with the very person they criticised.
“I guess it’s like the old saying goes, ‘Keep your friends close and your critics closer because they might just end up being your next adviser. Well, it’s all part of the rollercoaster that makes us Nigerians.”
Pa Chijo, “Congratulations sir. Baba is ensuring that those who criticise him end up licking their vomits.”
Joshni, “Congratulations, sir, but what has really changed about the president or you?
“Will the country change for good given another 4 years with you by his side, or is it still going to be business as usual even if 30 years are still given?”
David Eboh, “Profit of a double agent. Bwala the two-sided blade, a two-faced monster that happily pulls trees down with roots off the soil. Nigeria is weathering because of insensitive and evil people in positions of power.”
Don Tesman Irabor, “Why did you accept the appointment? During our campaign for Tinubu, you destroyed him and talked nonsense. Get out of the Tinubu government; I know you are coming to spoil his plan for Nigerians.”
Hon Dino, “Congratulations to Nigeria’s latest political candidate. Enjoy the reward for your hustle, but don’t forget to appreciate Peter Obi, for without him you are never going to get this job.”
Komolafee Gentle, “If you believe Bwala who is not man of his word, just like other Nigerian politicians, you do so at your own peril.
“You all can see the kind of leadership we are building. Sets of those who don’t have fear of God or integrity. How can they care about Nigeria or its citizens? Nigeria, we hail thee.”