Former Youth and Sports Minister Solomon Dalung has alleged that the cabals surrounding President Bola Tinubu are more formidable and dangerous than those who operated during Muhammadu Buhari‘s administration.
Gists9ja reports that Dalung made these assertions during an appearance on Channels Television’s “Politics Today” on Tuesday.
Dalung, who served as a minister in Buhari’s government, described Buhari as a “stranger” in his own administration, with cabals wielding unchecked influence over decision-making processes. He noted that while the cabals in Buhari’s government lacked advanced education, those in Tinubu’s administration are well-educated, ambitious, and possess a sophisticated understanding of power dynamics.
According to Dalung, these cabals are adept at manipulating power, creating barriers around the President, and limiting access to information and individuals. He highlighted their ability to shape Tinubu’s presidency in ways that could potentially hinder transparency and accountability.
In July 2024, Tinubu, who narrowly emerged victorious in the February 2023 presidential election and assumed office on May 29, 2023, publicly stated that he was not answerable to any cabal or financial backers. However, Dalung’s recent comments paint a contrasting picture of Tinubu’s administration.
Tinubu’s Statement on the National Assembly
Dalung also commented on a controversial remark made by Tinubu during the 2025 budget presentation to the National Assembly. While addressing the joint session of lawmakers, Tinubu mistakenly referred to the 10th National Assembly as the “11th National Assembly.” When corrected by his aides and the lawmakers, Tinubu responded humorously, saying, “I wrote 11th, which means you are all re-elected.”
This comment sparked mixed reactions, with critics interpreting it as a veiled message about the future political landscape. Speaking on News Central, Dalung suggested that Tinubu’s statement might have been a forewarning about the 2027 general elections.
Concerns About 2027 Elections
Dalung argued that Tinubu’s remark reflects the administration’s confidence in retaining power in 2027, regardless of public sentiment. He claimed that the conduct of local government elections under various state governors indicated a consolidation of power that could hinder democratic processes.
“When he said, ‘all of you are just re-elected,’ that was not just a joke,” Dalung remarked. “The President is indirectly revealing what to expect in 2027. Based on the current government’s approach and the way governors have managed local elections, I doubt Nigerians will have the opportunity to bring about significant change in 2027.”
Dalung further asserted that the President’s words might be an indication that the ruling political elite plan to maintain their grip on power by influencing the electoral process. He added, “Congratulations, Mr. President, because it seems the next elections might already have a predetermined outcome.”
Dalung’s comments have reignited debates about the role of cabals in governance and the implications for Nigeria’s democracy. Critics of Tinubu’s administration argue that if unchecked, the alleged influence of cabals could erode public trust and hinder the government’s ability to deliver on its promises. On the other hand, supporters of the administration have dismissed Dalung’s claims as speculative and politically motivated.
As Nigeria approaches future elections, these concerns raise important questions about transparency, accountability, and the integrity of its democratic processes.
