Atiku hits back at Tinubu aide, says presidency in panic over opposition coalition

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has fired back at remarks made by Daniel Bwala, a former aide turned Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu, saying the Presidency is gripped by panic over his growing coalition of opposition forces.

Bwala had advised Atiku, in a recent television interview, to abandon any presidential ambition for 2027, claiming it might not be God’s will for him to lead Nigeria. He also alleged that Atiku had lost significant political ground, estimating a loss of 60 to 70 percent of his loyal base.

Responding through his media office, Atiku, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), described Bwala’s comments as “disparaging” and rooted in desperation. He maintained that his mission to “rescue and rebuild Nigeria” was too important to be derailed by political distractions.

The media statement criticized Bwala for lacking consistency, labeling him a “political turncoat” who once campaigned for Atiku and is now seeking favor from a “floundering administration.” The statement accused the Tinubu-led government of orchestrating smear campaigns against Atiku due to his position as Nigeria’s most formidable opposition figure.

According to Atiku’s camp, the administration’s “obsession” with Atiku’s political future reveals a deep concern over the growing national coalition being built to challenge the ruling party. They claimed this alliance aims to address economic decline, institutional failure, and democratic erosion.

Atiku’s media office reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to Nigeria’s future, stressing that his legacy as a reformist and patriot remains intact despite ongoing political attacks. “He will not be distracted by political jesters masquerading as patriots,” the statement concluded.