Former Minister of Youth and Sports, Solomon Dalung, has described President Bola Tinubu as a “dwarf” in Nigeria’s political history, insisting that the president should not be ranked among the country’s great leaders.
Dalung spoke on Sunday while appearing as a guest on Channels Television, where he was asked whether Tinubu, often described as a political heavyweight and master strategist, could be defeated in the 2027 presidential election.
According to him, true political greatness is measured by legacy and service to the people, not by political manoeuvring.
“Tinubu is a dwarf in Nigerian political history and he should not be compared with great leaders like Sardauna and Awolowo,” Dalung said.
He argued that if the president were truly a strategic leader, his reputation should be reflected in improved governance outcomes, particularly in the areas of security and the economy.
“Because great leaders build legacies. They served the people. They worked for the people. If he is a great strategist as is being speculated, let us see this being translated into action,” he added.
Dalung said the president has failed to replicate at the national level what he achieved as governor of Lagos State, noting that Nigerians are yet to see clear improvements in the country’s economic and security challenges.
“Tinubu cannot manage insecurity, economy, and even a common palliative rolled out for the purpose of augmenting some of his economic policies,” he said.
The former minister further accused the administration of presiding over worsening economic conditions and rising corruption.
“His strategies should be seen in his performances, not somebody who is failing in everything. The economy is in shambles, corruption is flourishing. Where did this great strategist make an impact for the benefit of Nigerians?” Dalung asked.
On the 2027 presidential election, Dalung said the African Democratic Congress (ADC) is positioning itself to challenge Tinubu and the ruling party.
“I think we have so many people to challenge Tinubu,” he said.
He added that the opposition party had resolved to ensure a credible internal process ahead of the polls.
“We are going to conduct a transparent primary, and we have also resolved that whoever wins a transparent primary will be the person all of us support to challenge Tinubu,” Dalung stated.
Dalung, who served as minister between 2015 and 2019 under the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari, said defeating the incumbent in 2027 would depend on unity within the opposition rather than the popularity of any single candidate.
