Daniel Bwala explains poor showing in Mehdi Hasan interview, says he was not told past would be raised
By KEMI KASUMU
In a statement issued on Saturday, Bwala said he agreed to the interview to discuss issues such as security, the economy, and corruption in Nigeria. However, he claimed he was not informed beforehand that his past political positions would be raised.
Daniel Bwala, Special Adviser on Media and Policy Communication to Nigeria’s President , has responded to criticism following his recent international media interview with journalist , which drew widespread reactions on social media.
The interview, conducted on Hasan’s Head to Head program, sparked debate online after viewers said Bwala appeared unprepared for questions regarding his past political statements.
In a statement issued on Saturday, Bwala said he agreed to the interview to discuss issues such as security, the economy, and corruption in Nigeria. However, he claimed he was not informed beforehand that his past political positions would be raised.
“Nowhere in our almost six months of communication did they mention that they were going to challenge my past,” Bwala said. “If that had been their plan, ethically and professionally, they were supposed to inform me so I could prepare my response.”
He added that despite the controversy, he remained willing to appear before any interviewer to defend the policies and performance of the Tinubu administration.
“When I signed on to the privileged job granted to me by Mr. President, I was aware of its implications,” he said. “The task of promoting and defending the President and his administration is what I do with ease and joy.”
Bwala also rejected what he described as “opposition research-style journalism,” alleging that some of the quotes and references cited during the interview were inaccurate or misleading.
Addressing criticism about statements he made about President Tinubu in the past while in the opposition, Bwala said such political shifts were common.
“It is all politics,” he said, noting that several political figures worldwide have joined administrations they previously criticised.
However, his explanation has drawn criticism from some commentators. One respondent, who declined to be identified, compared Bwala’s complaint to expecting exam questions in advance.
“You want to go into an examination hall or a job interview and still expect the question paper to be leaked to you ahead of time,” the critic said.
Despite the backlash, Bwala thanked supporters who commended his performance and said he still respects Hasan as a skilled interviewer. He added that he looks forward to a possible second part of the interview, where discussions could focus more on government policies and achievements.
CLICK HERE TO WATCH VIDEO OF INTERVIEW
