Media aide to Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Daniel Bwala, has reacted to the criticism that followed his recent interview on Al Jazeera.
Bwala addressed the controversy in a statement on Saturday after his appearance on the program “Head to Head,” hosted by journalist Mehdi Hasan.
Bwala Explains Past Comments on Tinubu
According to Bwala, comments he made about President Tinubu in the past were part of political debates when he was in the opposition.
He stated that such remarks should be viewed within the context of political competition.
“As for what I said about President Tinubu in the past, those were things I said while I was in the opposition. It is all politics,” Bwala said.
The presidential aide explained that political alliances often change over time and that many political leaders have previously criticised figures they later worked with.
Reaction to Al Jazeera Interview
Bwala also revealed that the interview generated significant discussion on social media, with supporters and critics sharing different opinions about his responses.
He maintained that his responsibility as a media aide is to defend and promote the policies of the current administration.
According to him, he remains willing to appear on any media platform to discuss government policies and decisions.
Claim of Incomplete Briefing
The presidential aide also said he was not fully informed that the interview would focus on his past comments about the president.
He noted that the interview request initially indicated that discussions would centre on security, corruption, and economic issues.
Despite the controversy, Bwala expressed respect for Mehdi Hasan, describing him as a strong interviewer and debater.
Possibility of a Second Interview
Bwala further hinted that a second part of the interview could take place in the future.
He said he would welcome another opportunity to focus more on the policies and achievements of the current administration.
The interview continues to generate debate online as Nigerians discuss the role of political communication and media interviews in shaping public opinion.
