Daniel Bwala, President Bola Tinubu’s adviser on media and policy communication, has taken a swipe at Arise Television journalist Oseni Rufai following his remarks about Peter Obi, the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential hopeful.
Bwala suggested that Rufai’s assessment revealed the difficulties confronting opposition politicians as they prepare to challenge Tinubu in the 2027 presidential race.
The presidential spokesman reacted on Friday through his official X account, posting a video in which the broadcaster questioned Obi’s level of preparedness for the forthcoming election.
In his response, Bwala wrote, “Confessional statement is admissible in court. Lolll eyes Dey clear small small.”
The comment appeared to suggest that Rufai’s observations amounted to an admission of the obstacles facing Obi’s political ambition and the opposition’s plans to defeat the incumbent president.
While speaking on Arise Television’s The Morning Show on Friday, Rufai questioned whether Obi possessed the necessary political machinery and strategic direction to compete effectively in the 2027 presidential election.
He highlighted concerns over the former Anambra State governor’s relationship with the NDC, alongside reported disagreements between the party and groups associated with his political movement.
The broadcaster equally mentioned alleged friction involving the OK Movement, warning that divisions among political allies could complicate efforts to establish a united opposition front.
Rufai maintained that the reported disagreements had generated uncertainty regarding the unity of Obi’s supporters and the organisation of his anticipated campaign.
“As of today, Peter Obi is at loggerheads with the NDC and the OK Movement, amid widespread disarray. Today, people are even asking where Obi’s manifesto is,” he said.
The journalist also questioned whether Obi had clearly communicated his proposed policies and presented a comprehensive plan for addressing Nigeria’s challenges if elected president.
He subsequently examined Obi’s position on the removal of petrol subsidies, alleging that the former governor had expressed differing views on the controversial policy.
According to Rufai, Obi had previously indicated support for maintaining the subsidy before reportedly suggesting its removal after tackling corruption within the arrangement.
The presenter questioned whether the alleged inconsistency could affect public confidence in Obi’s political leadership and economic proposals ahead of the next election.
He further argued that some Nigerians who supported Obi during the 2023 presidential contest might have withdrawn their backing, raising questions about his ability to sustain his previous level of political support.
Rufai’s comments followed remarks by Chief Dan Ulasi, a prominent Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) figure, who had described Obi as a credible opposition politician capable of mounting a serious challenge against Tinubu.
Ulasi’s position sparked further discussion about Obi’s political standing, his prospects of attracting support from opposition parties and his ability to establish a formidable campaign structure before the 2027 polls.
Bwala subsequently seized on Rufai’s criticism to argue that concerns about the opposition’s preparedness were becoming increasingly evident.
The exchange underscores the growing political debate over opposition unity, campaign strategies, policy positions and the challenges facing contenders seeking to unseat Tinubu in 2027.
