APC Chieftain Defends Daniel Bwala, Urges Nigerians To Ignore Critics

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and former Kogi State governorship aspirant, Saidu Ugonoh, has urged Nigerians to ignore critics of Daniel Bwala, describing them as individuals seeking to distract the presidential aide from his duties.

Ugonoh’s reaction follows the recent interview granted by Bwala to Mehdi Hasan on Al Jazeera, which has generated widespread discussion on Nigerian television stations and social media platforms.

In a statement issued to journalists yesterday in Abuja, Ugonoh said Nigerians should disregard those “fueling hatred and spreading propaganda” about Bwala, adding that such critics should focus on more productive ventures instead of what he described as baseless attacks.

He advised Bwala to remain focused on his responsibilities to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting that the President understands his value and contributions.

According to Ugonoh, Tinubu was fully aware of Bwala’s past political positions when he was in the opposition but still chose to appoint him as Special Adviser on Media and Public Policy Communication because of his competence.

He added that Bwala has long-standing ties with Tinubu, dating back to the days of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), which later merged into the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Ugonoh noted that Bwala remained loyal to the APC throughout the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari, even when he did not hold any government appointment.

He explained that Bwala’s brief move to the opposition was based on personal principles, maintaining that the APC has always remained his political home.

Drawing parallels with global politics, Ugonoh cited the example of Donald Trump and Marco Rubio in the United States, noting that political rivals can later work together in government despite previous criticisms.

He insisted that criticism of Bwala’s interview would not deter him from performing his duties, adding that the presidential aide remains committed to effectively representing the Tinubu administration.

Ugonoh concluded that President Tinubu remains satisfied with Bwala’s performance and confident in his ability to continue delivering on his responsibilities in government.