Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume, representing Southern Borno District in the National Assembly, has issued a cautionary message to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, urging him to be wary of individuals who disguise themselves as political supporters but are actually liabilities.
Specifically referring to Daniel Bwala, a former critic of the All Progressives Congrebss (APC), Senator Ndume expressed his belief that Bwala can only bring political harm to President Tinubu.
Bwala, a lawyer turned politician, was once a member of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). However, he abruptly left the party and aligned himself with President Tinubu.
Following Senator Ndume’s interview on Arise TV, in which he expressed concerns about the increasing hunger and insecurity plaguing the current administration, Bwala publicly criticized Ndume on various platforms. This eventually led to the removal of Senator Ndume as Chief Whip and Vice Chairman of the Appropriation Committee by the APC National Working Committee and the Senate Caucus.
Last Friday, Bwala took to Twitter, alleging that Senator Ndume was planning to mobilize youths in his local government, Hawul, to attack him. Hawul is one of the constituencies within Senator Ndume’s jurisdiction.
Reacting to these claims, Senator Ndume expressed his disappointment, stating that it is unfortunate for Bwala to claim to be from Hawul when he cannot even establish his true roots, let alone understand the people of Hawul.
Senator Ndume clarified that in his interview on Arise TV, he did not insult or accuse President Tinubu. His criticisms were solely directed towards certain policies of the present administration which he believes have been detrimental to the average Nigerian.
He remarked, “Ordinarily, I would not have responded to Mr. Bwala, who claims to be from Hawul local government area, which is part of my constituency. I consider Daniel Bwala as a failed lawyer and an empty drum making noise in Abuja. However, I felt compelled to respond due to Bwala’s mention of threats and his claim that I am mobilizing youths to attack him. Such allegations have serious security implications and are highly sensitive. I believe Bwala’s strategy is to seek attention and sympathy from Mr. President in order to obtain police protection and perhaps a job.”
Senator Ndume emphasized that Hawul has credible individuals who are well aware of Daniel Bwala’s true character. He also highlighted that Hawul is known for its peaceful nature and that attempting to incite political violence among its people is completely out of line.
He concluded his response by advising President Tinubu to be cautious of individuals like Bwala, whom he described as a “mad dog” that bites even its owner. Senator Ndume pointed out that Bwala was previously a member of the APC but shamelessly defected and joined former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar’s camp, where he resorted to hurling abusive and insulting words at Tinubu on live television. Senator Ndume advised Bwala to return to Borno and reconnect with his roots, especially with the upcoming 2027 general elections in mind.
