Top Obi allies in talks with APC, says Tinubu’s media aide

In what may signal a significant shift in Nigeria’s political terrain, Daniel Bwala, the Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Media and Policy Communication, has claimed that top members of Peter Obi’s inner circle are moving toward the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Bwala, who made the revelation during a Monday interview on TVC, stated that at least one of the key aides to the 2023 Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate has already joined the APC. He further disclosed that another close associate of Obi is currently in active discussions with party leaders, while a media spokesperson from Obi’s team has shown interest in defecting to the ruling party.

“Governors are joining our party, but beyond that, let’s talk about those who managed the campaigns of opposition presidential candidates. For instance, Peter Obi — one of his handlers is already with us, another is in talks, and one of his media spokespersons has reached out to us,” Bwala revealed during the interview.

He emphasized that these moves are not driven by financial inducement, but rather by a growing belief in the APC’s direction under Tinubu’s leadership.

“These individuals are coming because they see the APC as a party moving in the direction of national consensus and purposeful leadership,” Bwala added. “They’re not being offered money — they simply recognize that, despite its imperfections, the APC is governed by the right intentions.”

In a bold political commentary during the same interview, Bwala also turned his attention to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, advising him to reconsider any ambitions of contesting the 2027 presidential election.

“If I had the chance to speak with my former principal face to face, I would say: Your Excellency, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, perhaps it’s time to accept that God may not have ordained you to become President,” Bwala said.

He urged Atiku to pivot toward statesmanship and find alternative ways to contribute to national development—particularly by collaborating with President Tinubu.

“There are many other meaningful ways to contribute. Since you share a longstanding friendship with President Tinubu, why not work together with him to build the Nigeria you both envisioned? That way, your legacy can include real impact, even if through your ally,” he suggested.

Bwala concluded with a warning that Atiku’s political capital may be diminishing, stating that another presidential bid could result in further damage to his reputation and influence.

“Should he choose to run again, it might not end well politically. From what I can tell, Atiku has lost between 60 to 70 percent of his political family,” Bwala asserted.

As Nigeria’s political class begins to re-strategize ahead of the 2027 elections, Bwala’s revelations have sparked conversations about realignments and the fluid loyalties shaping the country’s future leadership dynamics.