Former Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Solomon Dalung, has issued a defiant political statement, warning the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) that no amount of strategizing or defections will prevent its collapse in the 2027 general elections. According to Dalung, the masses are prepared to reclaim Nigeria from what he describes as a cabal that has hijacked power for personal gain.
Speaking during a public interview, Dalung declared his unshaken commitment to challenging the political status quo, accusing the APC of having failed Nigerians in both ideology and governance. He minced no words as he warned President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his allies that the momentum building across the nation will overwhelm the party regardless of how many state governors join its fold.
He said, “I promise President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, even if the 36 state governors defect to APC... they are going to be defeated in 2027 because it is we versus them.”
This striking comment immediately sparked reactions across political circles, as observers interpret it as a call to action for the opposition and a reflection of growing dissatisfaction with the present administration. Dalung emphasized that the will of the Nigerian people cannot be overpowered by manipulation or the mere acquisition of political heavyweights.
The former minister, who once served under President Muhammadu Buhari, has often distanced himself from what he describes as the betrayal of the original ideals that gave rise to the APC in 2013. According to him, the party has deviated far from its promises of change and has instead entrenched a political culture marked by elitism and exclusion.
Dalung expressed disappointment in the party’s performance across several critical sectors. From rising poverty rates to insecurity and a declining economy, he insisted that the APC has mismanaged its mandate, resulting in widespread public discontent. He criticized the leadership’s reliance on political arithmetic, including attempts to absorb influential politicians into the party, rather than focusing on effective governance.
“Governors can defect. Senators can defect. Even the opposition parties can merge into APC. None of that will save the party from the wrath of the people come 2027. Nigerians are wide awake now, and they will not be deceived again by recycled promises or cosmetic reforms,” Dalung asserted.
His remarks come at a time when political realignments are beginning to take shape ahead of the 2027 elections. Speculation about mass defections, new coalitions, and the repositioning of political heavyweights is gaining traction. Amid this, Dalung’s intervention stands out as a warning that electoral victory will not be secured through elite calculations alone.
Political analysts have pointed out that such bold statements reflect a broader frustration within and outside the ruling party. Several grassroots movements, civil society groups, and youth-led initiatives are beginning to mobilize with a renewed sense of urgency, aiming to challenge what they perceive as the entrenched dominance of a few political families.
Dalung’s rhetoric further underscores the increasing tensions between former party loyalists and the current leadership. Once seen as a vocal advocate of the APC’s foundational ideology, his criticisms are now aimed at what he considers the party’s abandonment of its original mission.
He also stressed that the country cannot continue on its current trajectory without risking deeper political and economic crisis. “This is not a personal battle. It is about Nigeria’s survival. It is about our children’s future. It is about rescuing a nation that has been held hostage by those who have no vision beyond their own self-interest,” he added.
Supporters of the APC have tried to downplay Dalung’s comments, calling them an overreaction or political grandstanding. However, others believe his words carry weight, particularly among younger Nigerians who feel excluded and disillusioned by the existing power structures.
Civil society activists have echoed similar concerns in recent weeks. Economic hardship, rising inflation, fuel subsidy removal, and the soaring cost of living have all contributed to mounting pressure on the Tinubu administration. Critics argue that these challenges are being met with insufficient and often poorly communicated responses.
Dalung’s call to action seems to be part of a broader awakening within Nigeria’s political opposition. While no single coalition has yet emerged as a formidable challenger to the APC, conversations among various political stakeholders suggest that plans are underway to form a viable front before the next elections.
The former minister also made it clear that his criticism was not just aimed at individuals but at a political system that he claims no longer serves the people. He called for a return to principled politics, focused on development, transparency, and accountability.
Observers believe that if figures like Dalung continue to gain traction and support from disenfranchised groups, the APC could face a significantly tougher electoral battle in 2027. The ruling party may still command structural advantages, including incumbency and financial strength, but political momentum can quickly shift in a country known for its unpredictable voting patterns.
Dalung concluded his remarks with a passionate appeal to Nigerians not to lose hope, urging them to organize and prepare for what he described as a historic political reckoning. “We are not powerless. Our vote is our weapon. 2027 will not be about political parties, it will be about the people,” he said.
As political activity intensifies across the country, the coming months may reveal whether Dalung’s warning was prophetic or merely political rhetoric. One thing is clear: the battle lines for 2027 are already being drawn, and the old game of defections and alliances may no longer be enough to guarantee victory.
"I promise President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, even if the 36 state governors defect to APC...they are going to be defeated in 2027 because it is we versus them." - Solomon Dalung says no amount of political tactics will save the APC, as the party will be defeated in the 2027 elections. pic.twitter.com/BwNoSucJaa
— Oyindamola🙄 (@dammiedammie35) July 4, 2025
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