Former Minister of Youth and Sports, Solomon Dalung, has described President Bola Tinubu as a “dwarf” in Nigeria’s political history, arguing that the president should not be listed among the nation’s great leaders.
Dalung made the remarks on Sunday during an appearance on Channels Television while responding to questions on whether Tinubu often portrayed as a political heavyweight and master strategist could be defeated in the 2027 presidential election.
According to him, political greatness is defined by legacy, service and impact on citizens, 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, such qualities should be reflected in improved governance, especially in security and economic management.
“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 Tinubu has been unable to replicate at the national level what he achieved as governor of Lagos State, noting that Nigerians are yet to experience meaningful improvements in the economy and security situation.
“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 overseeing 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, adding that the opposition has several potential contenders.
“I think we have so many people to challenge Tinubu,” he said.
He explained that the ADC has resolved to conduct a transparent primary election and unite behind whoever emerges as its candidate.
“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 from 2015 to 2019 under former President Muhammadu Buhari, said defeating the incumbent in 2027 would depend largely on opposition unity rather than the popularity of any single candidate.
Elijah Adeyemi
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