April 12, 2025- Daniel Bwala, Policy Communication aide to President Bola Tinubu, has dismissed rumors of a Senate bid, quashing speculation about replacing Senator Ali Ndume in Southern Borno.
Amid growing scrutiny, Bwala clarified his stance on social media, directly addressing Ndume’s anxieties.
“Senator Ndume, your frustration ages you daily.
I’m not running for Senate, nor plotting to unseat you,” he declared, rejecting claims of political maneuvering.
Meanwhile, Bwala launched a sharp critique of Ndume’s two-decade tenure, accusing him of failing Southern Borno’s constituents.
He highlighted dwindling public support, citing the senator’s omission from a regional Excellence Award honoring local leaders.
“No wonder Southern Borno excluded you,” Bwala remarked, framing the snub as proof of eroding trust.
Adding fuel to the fire, Bwala alleged Ndume’s allies threatened critics and accused the senator of political hypocrisy.
“By night, he courts rival coalitions; by day, he masquerades as an APC loyalist,” he claimed, questioning Ndume’s integrity.
This clash intensified after Ndume allegedly insulted Bwala during a televised interview, prompting a public rebuke.
Reflecting on past interactions, Bwala revealed Ndume once sought his support during a crisis.
“You thanked me profusely in private yet attack me publicly,” he stated, urging the senator to uphold respect.
“Decorum matters—respect is reciprocal,” Bwala emphasized, framing their feud as a clash of principles.
As tensions rise, Southern Borno residents face uncertainty over representation ahead of 2025 elections. Many question Ndume’s ability to address pressing issues like insecurity and economic stagnation, while others view Bwala’s critiques as a rallying cry for change. Political analysts suggest this rift could reshape alliances, potentially galvanizing opposition voices.
Ultimately, Bwala’s defiance underscores a broader demand for accountability in Nigerian politics. His refusal to seek office—paired with bold scrutiny of a longtime incumbent—reflects growing impatience with unfulfilled promises. For Ndume, the pressure mounts to defend his legacy or risk being overshadowed by a shifting political landscape.
Southern Borno’s voters now weigh loyalty against the hunger for progress, watching closely as this rivalry unfolds. The outcome may hinge on who prioritizes their needs over personal ambition—a test neither politician can afford to fail.