Former Minister of Youths and Sports Development, Solomon Dalung, has strongly condemned the ongoing wave of defections to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), describing the party as a congregation of "sinners in search of forgiveness" rather than a reflection of any quantitative accomplishments.
Speaking on the current political realignments reshaping Nigeria's political landscape, Dalung referenced former Edo State Governor Adams Oshiomole's remarks that any politician would "be forgiven" for past actions upon receiving an APC ticket.
"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," Dalung stated.
Warning of Future Risks
The former minister warned that these mass defections do not enhance President Tinubu's administration but instead pose significant future risks. "They're not adding value to Tinubu. Instead, he's compounding his party's internal troubles, which may lead to an implosion," he cautioned.
Drawing from Hausa proverbs, Dalung questioned who truly benefits from these political maneuvers: "If animals celebrate the death of a butcher, has the knife also died? If politicians defect, have the people also defected?"
Comments on El-Rufai and SDP
Regarding reports of former Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai potentially aligning with the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Dalung dismissed any threat to the party's 2023 presidential candidate, Prince Adewole Adebayo.
According to Dalung, Adebayo remains the SDP's most credible figure since the days of Chief MKO Abiola and has consistently opposed the current government's 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 questioned about the SDP's involvement in coalition talks, Dalung confirmed that discussions had taken place but said official 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.
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