Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has responded sharply to comments made by Daniel Bwala, a presidential aide, saying he does not need approval from “political opportunists” who switch parties and abandon their principles.
Atiku, who was the 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), made the remarks in a statement released by his media adviser, Paul Ibe, on Tuesday.
The statement came after Bwala, now a Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Policy Communication, said during a TV interview that Atiku should “accept the will of God and stop running against destiny.”
Bwala also dismissed the idea of a coalition led by Atiku, saying it was “dead on arrival.”
Atiku hit back, calling Bwala’s comments “sanctimonious” and “bitter.” He said it was ironic that Bwala, who once worked as his spokesperson, was now speaking against him.
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The statement read, “Atiku Abubakar neither seeks nor requires validation from political opportunists who shed principles as easily as they change parties. Mr. Bwala’s current relevance, if any, is owed entirely to the platform he once occupied under Atiku’s leadership — a fact that should breed humility, not arrogance.”
He also accused Bwala and the Tinubu administration of being “shaken” by the growing momentum of the coalition Atiku is building with other political leaders.
He asked, “If, as they claim, Atiku is a spent force, why the relentless smear campaign?” The answer is plain: Atiku Abubakar remains the single most formidable opposition figure in Nigeria.”
Atiku added that he would not be distracted by “political jesters masquerading as patriots.” He said his focus remains on rescuing Nigeria from economic collapse, institutional failure, and poor governance.
He said, “Legacy is not defined by the trappings of office but by courage, consistency, and conviction. Atiku Abubakar’s legacy — as a unifier, builder, and patriot — is deeply etched in the consciousness of millions of Nigerians.”
He concluded that the task of rebuilding Nigeria is urgent and cannot be derailed by “petty ego trips” from desperate aides.