Former Minister of Youths and Sports Development, Solomon Dalung, has aligned with a group of politicians working to unseat President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 general election, accusing the administration of failing Nigerians.
Dalung described Tinubu’s two years in office as disappointing and far below expectations. He criticised the president’s removal of fuel subsidy at the beginning of his term, calling it reckless and a sign that he lacked a clear understanding of Nigeria’s situation. According to him, the decision was made without adequate preparation or proper consultation, and it marked the beginning of the economic hardship citizens are facing.
He dismissed the ongoing endorsements of the president by APC leaders and National Assembly members as insincere, likening the ruling party to a sanctuary where politicians seek forgiveness for past wrongdoings. Dalung said the endorsements do not reflect public sentiment but rather a convergence of self-serving political actors.
Reacting to recent defections from the PDP to APC, including those by Delta and Akwa Ibom State governors, Dalung argued that such moves were not people-driven. He claimed that many of these politicians lacked the mandate of the people and that their defections would not affect the political tide. He insisted that the masses remain aligned against the ruling party and warned that Tinubu will face fierce resistance in 2027, regardless of defections or political maneuvering.
Dalung expressed support for the coalition forming among opposition figures like Atiku Abubakar and Nasir El-Rufai. He believes the coalition enjoys growing support among ordinary Nigerians who are desperate for change and suffering under harsh economic conditions. He said the coalition offers a glimmer of hope for citizens and is gaining traction at the grassroots level.
He also praised Prince Adewale Adebayo of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), calling him a strong presidential contender. Dalung credited Adebayo with revitalising the SDP and standing consistently against the Tinubu administration’s unpopular policies. He said Adebayo remains a key figure in any credible opposition movement.
On the proposed shadow government by Professor Pat Utomi, Dalung said it was a welcome development. He recalled his participation in a similar initiative under the Buhari administration, explaining that such efforts are meant to provide alternative policy options to Nigerians and the international community. He argued that the shadow government would help counter the propaganda of the current administration and reassure investors that Nigeria is not short of capable leadership.
Dalung was particularly critical of the 10th National Assembly, accusing lawmakers of acting more like a praise-singing choir than a legislative body. He joked that the Assembly might one day amend the constitution by voice vote to make Tinubu life president. According to him, their lack of independence and eagerness to please the executive branch is undermining democratic governance.
He concluded by urging Nigerians to remain engaged and vigilant, stressing that meaningful change in 2027 will depend on collective action and the resolve to reject bad governance.
