Dalung Emphasizes Need for Northern Votes
The former Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Solomon Dalung, declared that no presidential candidate can succeed in Nigeria without securing votes from the northern region. He made the remark while monitoring the African Democratic Congress (ADC) primaries in Nasarawa State.
“You can’t win an election in Nigeria without support from the North. You cannot. The North is mainly ADC.”
Regional Politics Resurfacing
Dalung noted that Nigeria has reverted to regional politics reminiscent of the First Republic, stating that each region now aligns with its own party. He pointed out that the Igbos have gravitated toward APGA, while the APC is associated with Tinubu and his allies, and the PDP has been shifted south under Jonathan’s influence.
Doubts Over Wale Edun’s Resignation
Dalung also expressed skepticism about the reported resignation of Finance Minister Wale Edun from President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet. Although he acknowledged Edun’s integrity, he argued that the minister was a misfit in the current political environment and that his departure was inevitable.
“Wale Edun is somebody who has integrity. He’s a misfit into a political arrangement like the one we have in place.”
He added that while the official explanation cited health reasons, the real circumstances were more complex, noting his long‑standing personal relationship with Edun and how their communication had cooled after Edun’s inauguration.
“The day they inaugurated him, he has not picked my call. I didn’t want to bother about that because I wanted to allow him to finish with his Tinubu minister. When he finished, we’ll continue with our friendship.”
Dalung described Edun as one of the best Nigerians he has known, recalling daily visits during his tenure as minister and saying he never envied Edun’s position.
About the Author
