By Jude Opara
A former Minister of Youths and Sports Development, Solomon Dalung, has condemned the ongoing wave of defection to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), calling it a congregation of “sinners in search of forgiveness,” and not a reflection of the APC’s quantitative accomplishments.
While speaking on the political realignments currently reshaping Nigeria’s political space, Dalung called to attention, the former Governor of Edo State, Adams Oshiomole’s remarks, which stated that any politician, regardless of what he or she has done will “be forgiven” as soon as he/she is awarded a ticket by the APC.
According to Dalung, this view is now playing out in real time.
“These are people who have committed heinous crimes against the Nigerian people and are jumping into the APC ship not because they believe in President Tinubu, but because they want their sins forgiven,” he said.
He added that the mass defections do not enhance President Tinubu’s administration but rather pose future risks.
“They’re not adding value to Tinubu. Instead, he’s compounding his party’s internal troubles, which may lead to an implosion,” Dalung warned.
Drawing from Hausa proverbs, Dalung questioned the real beneficiaries of these political moves. “If animals celebrate the death of a butcher, has the knife also died? If politicians defect, have the people also defected?” he asked.
On the issue of former Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai reportedly aligning with the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Dalung dismissed any threat to the party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Prince Adewole Adebayo.
According to him, Adebayo remains the party’s most credible figure since the days of Chief MKO Abiola and has consistently voiced opposition to the current government’s failed policies. “He is a force to beat in 2027. No one has promoted SDP like him in recent years,” Dalung affirmed.
He described Adebayo as a patriotic politician who entered politics to fight for justice, equity, and the rule of law. “Even if he loses in a fair process, he will remain a team player in the mission for a better Nigeria,” he added.
When asked about the SDP’s involvement in coalition talks, Dalung confirmed that discussions had occurred but said details would be released by party leadership.
“I’m aware that coalition delegates met with SDP leaders, but only the party can speak officially on the outcome,” he concluded.
Never miss a moment! Get the stories shaping Nigeria, delivered straight to your phone. Follow Peoplesdaily Newspaper on WhatsApp for breaking news, exclusive reports, and the headlines everyone will be talking about, before anyone else.
