Leaders from the Southern Borno chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) have openly criticized Daniel Bwala, branding him as “an unreliable individual devoid of integrity.”
This backlash comes in response to Bwala’s recent verbal assaults on Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume, who was recently ousted from his role as Chief Whip of the Senate.
During a press briefing in Abuja, Baba Ahmed Mustapha, the spokesperson for the APC leaders, defended Senator Ndume and condemned Bwala’s remarks.
Mustapha characterized Bwala as politically fickle, referencing his previous criticisms of President Bola Tinubu and his shifting political allegiances.
He asserted that Ndume’s initiative to tackle the economic issues confronting Nigerians was indicative of his dedication to public service, rather than an act of rebellion. Mustapha argued that Ndume’s efforts on behalf of the populace should be commended, not condemned.
He stated, “We respect Daniel Bwala’s constitutional right to express his views, just as Senator Ndume is entitled to voice his concerns within constitutional limits. As a legal professional, Bwala should be aware that Section 39 guarantees freedom of expression for all citizens. We stand by the Senator. While he has his flaws and may not have met everyone’s expectations as a politician, we take pride in his courage to speak out when it counts.”
“Unlike the ostrich, which hides from impending danger, Ndume’s statements encourage proactive governmental action rather than inciting rebellion against it. He could have chosen silence and enjoyed the privileges of his position, but he prioritizes the welfare of the people—a responsibility he takes seriously.”
Mustapha referenced Frantz Fanon, the Algerian revolutionary, stating, “The future will show no mercy for those who, despite having the privilege to speak the truth, choose indifference.”
“In his pursuit to undermine the senator, Bwala has accused him of failing to meet the expectations of his constituents. However, we can cite Ndume’s consistent electoral victories since 2003 as evidence of his connection with the people.”
“Ndume has empowered numerous constituents, though he is not one to seek public accolades for his generosity. The success of his empowerment initiatives is evident in his repeated reelections.”
“Should Daniel Bwala disagree, he is welcome to test his political mettle; after all, the 2027 elections are approaching. In any respectable society, consistency is a hallmark of honorable individuals who remain steadfast in their beliefs and actions. But can Bwala truly claim that title?”
“It is perplexing, if not astonishing, that Bwala, who has previously disparaged President Tinubu, now attempts to present himself as a fervent defender of the president.”
The APC leaders questioned Bwala’s integrity, recalling his previous accusations against Tinubu, claiming he held “a stolen mandate” and that “the gods are against his leadership.”
“They also reminded everyone that after the APC primaries, when Tinubu secured the presidential nomination and selected Senator Kashim Shettima as his running mate, Bwala promptly left the party, despite Shettima’s ties to Borno.”
