Paul Ibe, Media Adviser to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, has raised concerns about recent presidential appointments, stating that individuals selected to represent Nigeria must reflect the country’s values and interests. Ibe made the remarks during an interview on News Central TV on Monday, March 9, 2026.
While responding to questions regarding the leadership style of President Bola Tinubu and the appointment of individuals who had previously criticized him. During the program, the interviewer referenced claims that the president had demonstrated magnanimity and forgiveness by appointing individuals who had earlier spoken critically about him.
“Now, Mr. Paul Ibe, some have described Mr. President’s leadership staff as being magnanimous. He’s a forgiving father. He has an open heart. And we’ve seen that in the appointment of people who are guilty of doublespeak. They’ve said really terrible things about Mr. President, but they end up with very great appointments. I’m talking of Mr. Daniel Bwala and the person of the current Nigerian ambassador to Mexico, Ambassador Reno Omokri.’ the interviewer asked.
“How would you describe that leadership staff? I mean, you can be forgiving and magnanimous in your private life, but when you are appointing people to represent Nigeria, doesn’t that say a lot about you? Mr. Osinowo said it doesn’t reflect on the president and the government. Do you agree with him on that? Or what’s your take?” the interviewer added.
Responding to the question, Ibe acknowledged that forgiveness could be a positive personal trait but argued that public appointments require careful consideration because of their implications for national representation. “I mean, a compassionate heart is good to be forgiving and all of that. But like you said, you know, we’re talking about Nigeria. Whoever the president appoints represents our country and everything that we value and we stand for,” he said.
He emphasized that his concerns were directed toward the broader implications for Nigeria rather than individuals alone. “And I’m not weeping for Daniel Bwala. I mean, I’m weeping for Nigeria. And I mean, hear it from Dr. Osinowo or what he has said. I mean, completely,” Ibe stated.
Ibe also alleged that ethnic considerations have continued to shape political discourse and governance since the 2023 general elections. “I also have a sense that they’re also playing the ethnic card, which also defined the 2023 election and continues to define even governance and politics in the APC. And it’s a shame to Nigeria,” he said.
He continued by stating that appointments made by the president ultimately reflect on the administration. “It’s a shame to the APC ruling party. It’s a shame to Bola Tinubu. I am not talking about Daniel Bwala. Daniel Bwala represents the administration, and Daniel Bwala was hired by President Bola Tinubu the same way that the president also tapped Reno Omokri to be the ambassador in Mexico,” he said.
Post a Comment