2 months ago
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Daniel Bwala, a former aide to ex-Vice President Atiku Abubakar, has come under fire from ethnic groups for his recent comments on the security apparatus under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
On Sunday, Bwala suggested via his X handle that the Ministers of Defence, Mohammed Badaru and Bello Matawalle, might be dismissed.
The leadership of the groups has denounced this statement as not only unfounded but also a diversion from the real issues plaguing the region and the nation.
Bwala’s post on X insinuated that his perception contributed to the seizure by bandits of Nigerian military armoured vehicles in Zamfara State, leading to a reported video victory celebration by terrorism kingpin Bello Turji and his bandits.
In separate statements issued on Monday, Yerima Shettima, President General of the Arewa Youth Consultative Forum, and Comrade Eric Oluwole, leader of the Yoruba Youth Council, reminded Bwala of his stance during the last election, in which Tinubu emerged victorious. They questioned his sudden shift to become a self-styled supporter of the administration.
The groups commended Badaru and Matawalle for their efforts in addressing the unique security challenges facing the North and encouraged their continued service. They also criticised Bwala’s apparent ambition, which seems to be an attempt to shift the narrative for his own benefit.
The AYCF specifically stated that Bwala’s motives are questionable and his harsh rhetoric against established leaders is divisive, undermining the unity and cooperation needed to tackle the security challenges in the North.
The groups urged President Tinubu to be cautious of individuals like Bwala, who seek to undermine his reputation and initiatives within the North. They emphasised the need for collaboration and dialogue to achieve a common goal of securing the region and expressed their commitment to holding accountable those who seek to mislead the public or distract from crucial efforts underway.
Shettima and Oluwole said, “Where exactly was Bwala when the electorate strongly endorsed President Tinubu’s vision for a secure and prosperous Nigeria? His sudden shift to become a self-styled supporter of this administration raises questions about his motivations and credibility.
“We commend Badaru and Matawalle for their efforts and encourage their continued service in addressing insecurity, which remains a pressing concern for all northerners. We take exception to Mr Bwala’s thinly veiled ambition, which appears to be an attempt to shift the narrative for his own gain.
“We recall his earlier declaration about aspiring to hold the position of Mr Ngilari, which may have influenced his harsh rhetoric against leaders dedicated to the safety and advancement of our communities. As representatives of the northern youth, we are concerned about attempts to undermine President Tinubu’s administration through baseless criticisms. The ongoing initiatives aimed at restoring peace and security in the region deserve the support of all stakeholders, including those with critical voices.
“It is this spirit of collaboration towards a common goal that we hope Mr Bwala can embrace, rather than spiralling into personal grievances. We caution President Tinubu to be wary of allowing such individuals to undermine his reputation and initiatives within the North,” the groups said.
