Former Minister of Youth and Sports, Solomon Dalung, has alleged that corruption could become a requirement for political appointments if President Bola Tinubu wins the 2027 presidential election.
Speaking on Arise TV’s breakfast programme, Dalung criticised the composition of the All Progressives Congress (APC) campaign council, particularly the inclusion of individuals he claimed had corruption allegations against them.
He specifically questioned the inclusion of former Zamfara State governor and APC campaign council chairman, Senator Abdul’aziz Abubakar Yari, alongside other individuals he alleged had faced corruption-related accusations.
According to Dalung, the presence of such individuals in the campaign structure raises questions about the kind of government the APC could form if Tinubu secures another term.
He also criticised the APC’s decision to withdraw and review its campaign council list, describing it as evidence of poor preparation and suggesting that it could result in a “government of trial by error.”
Dalung maintained that the credibility of the 2027 electoral process should begin with the quality and integrity of candidates and the individuals selected to campaign for them.
He also criticised the Tinubu administration over the removal of fuel subsidy, borrowing and the economic hardship facing ordinary Nigerians, insisting that the subsidy should be reintroduced because its removal had not sufficiently benefited Nigerians.
On corruption, the former minister accused the administration of lacking the capacity to effectively tackle the problem and questioned information contained in Tinubu’s nomination documents submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
He argued that a government facing allegations and questions over integrity could not effectively lead an anti-corruption campaign.
Dalung also expressed support for the establishment of state police, describing it as necessary to improve security, although he cautioned that its full benefits might take years to become evident.
Despite his criticism of the administration, he commended President Tinubu for supporting efforts towards legislation establishing state police.
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