Daniel Bwala’s recent appointment in President Bola Tinubu’s administration has ignited a storm of controversy, particularly among members of the All Progressives Congress (APC). The backlash centers on Bwala’s previous opposition to the Muslim-Muslim ticket, which led him to defect from the APC to the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) during the last election cycle. Bwala was an outspoken critic of Tinubu's choice, citing concerns over religious balance and emphasizing his commitment to “equity, fairness, and justice.” Now, his decision to accept a position within the government he once opposed has drawn fierce criticism, with some questioning whether his stance was genuine or merely political maneuvering.
Adnan Mukhtar Tudunwada’s reaction on social media captured the mood of many APC loyalists: “Daniel Bwala will be serving a Muslim-Muslim government. The same person who worked against Tinubu on the basis that he couldn't support a Muslim-Muslim ticket. He stood for equity fairness and justice but where is all these that he stood for?” This sentiment reflects a broader frustration among supporters who feel that Bwala has abandoned his previously stated principles.
The anger has not been limited to just one corner of the APC base. Usman Mustapha, another Tinubu supporter, expressed disappointment over the appointment, stating, “Tinubu is favoring those who campaign against him at the expense of those who lay down their lives for him during the campaign/election. This is very unfair.” The sense of betrayal runs deep, particularly among those who remained loyal to the APC amidst intense criticism and political challenges.
This dissatisfaction was echoed by @Sir Mogano, who questioned Bwala's credibility: “What did Daniel Bwala do to deserve this appointment? All he did during the campaign was insult our candidate and party... he promised never to be a party to [the Muslim-Muslim ticket], so what has changed now?” This rhetoric underscores the perceived contradictions in Bwala’s political journey, as he moves from a vocal opponent to a government insider.
For many APC supporters, the controversy is not just about Bwala, but about a larger pattern they see within the party. @Ozo Nnanna’s remarks highlighted the discontent, accusing the APC of favoring those who once undermined Tinubu’s credibility while loyal party defenders face neglect: “APC is a big joker in appointment. So those that were defending Tinubu with his Chicago University Degree lost, and those that were busy rubbing him with red mud, Daniel Bwala and Reno Omokri made it.”
The social media backlash reflects the deep divisions and frustrations within the APC, exposing tensions over loyalty, political rewards, and the principles guiding appointments. Daniel Bwala's acceptance of his new role forces a reconsideration of how personal ideology aligns—or conflicts—with political opportunity in Nigeria’s ever-shifting political landscape. His case has become a focal point for debates on the authenticity of political convictions and the consequences of crossing ideological lines in pursuit of influence and power.
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