LAGOS, Nigeria — Presidential spokesperson Daniel Bwala has sparked widespread debate after remarks made during an appearance on the Morayo Show, where he described some of the jobs undertaken by Nigerians in the United Kingdom as a form of “modern slavery.”
The comments have generated mixed reactions on social media, with supporters and critics offering sharply differing views on his assessment of the experiences of many Nigerians living and working abroad.
During the interview, Bwala discussed governance, security, and citizen accountability, while also reflecting on the realities faced by members of the Nigerian diaspora. He argued that some forms of employment available to migrants in the UK are physically demanding and, in his view, can amount to “modern slavery.”
His remarks quickly attracted criticism online, with some social media users questioning what they described as an apparent contradiction between his comments and his personal and professional ties to the United Kingdom.
Several users also commented on an Instagram post promoting the interview, expressing disagreement with his views and questioning his credibility. Others defended his comments, arguing that he was highlighting difficult working conditions experienced by some migrants rather than condemning the UK as a whole.
The latest controversy follows recent criticism from social media commentator official_doctor_zo, who publicly called for Bwala’s removal from President Bola Tinubu’s administration and described him as “a nuisance” and an embarrassment. Those remarks reflect the commentator’s opinion and have not been substantiated.
Despite the backlash, Bwala used the interview to defend the Federal Government’s reform agenda. He argued that state and local governments have primary responsibility for delivering key public services, including security, education, and healthcare, and called for greater transparency and accountability in the management of public funds.
The debate has once again drawn attention to the broader issues surrounding migration, employment, and the experiences of Nigerians living abroad. It also highlights the increasingly polarised nature of political discourse on social media, where public figures frequently face intense scrutiny over statements that are perceived as disregarding the hard work and contributions of Nigerians both at home and abroad.
