Atiku Slams Bwala: I Don’t Need Validation from Political Opportunists Who Change Parties Like Clothes

Atiku Abubakar, the 2023 presidential candidate for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has responded to remarks made by Daniel Bwala, Special Adviser to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Policy Communication. In a statement issued on Tuesday through his media adviser, Paul Ibe, Atiku made it clear that he neither seeks nor requires validation from political opportunists, referring to individuals who frequently change political affiliations and abandon their principles.

The comments came after Bwala’s interview on TVC’s Journalists’ Hangout on Monday, where he claimed that the All Progressives Congress (APC) did not miss anything after the exit of Governor Nasir El-Rufai, and suggested that Atiku should accept “the will of God” and stop running against what he described as “destiny.” Bwala also asserted that any coalition led by Atiku was “dead on arrival.”

Atiku, however, found it ironic and unfortunate that Bwala, who had previously served as his spokesperson, was now lecturing a respected statesman on matters of legacy, destiny, and retirement. Atiku’s camp also described Bwala’s remarks as a desperate attempt to gain favor with the current administration, which they argue is clearly troubled by the growing momentum of a national coalition led by Atiku and other progressive leaders.

The statement further emphasized that Atiku does not seek validation from political opportunists, stating that Bwala’s current relevance, if any, is entirely due to his previous association with Atiku’s leadership. It also highlighted the political maneuvering by the Tinubu camp, questioning why they continue to attack Atiku if they believe he is a “spent force.” According to Atiku’s statement, the relentless smear campaigns and attacks demonstrate that he remains the most formidable opposition figure in Nigeria. The broad-based coalition he is building poses a significant challenge to the ruling party, which the statement claims is rattled by the movement.

Atiku also reiterated that his legacy, shaped by his consistent commitment to reform, restructuring, and electoral integrity, is secure and cannot be tarnished by the actions of those who have defected to defend the status quo. He reaffirmed his focus on Nigeria’s future, stressing that the task of rescuing and rebuilding the nation is too critical to be sidetracked by the political games of aides in the presidential camp.

The former Vice President concluded by stressing that his legacy would be defined by courage, consistency, and conviction, qualities that have made him a central figure in Nigeria’s democratic development. He remains unshaken in his mission to address the country’s pressing challenges.