Former Sports Minister Solomon Dalung has declared that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu stands no chance of winning re-election in 2027—even if he appoints his son, Seyi Tinubu, as Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Dalung made the bold statement during an interview on News Central television on Friday night, where he criticised the Tinubu administration for what he described as anti-people policies and a widening disconnect from the masses.
The former minister, who served under President Muhammadu Buhari, warned that the next general election will not follow traditional political dynamics but will instead be a direct confrontation between the Nigerian people and what he called a ruling elite determined to cling to power at all costs.
“Like I promised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” Dalung said, “even if the 36 governors of Nigeria defect to the APC, even if he appoints Seyi Tinubu as INEC chairman and his wife as Chief Justice of Nigeria, he will still be defeated in 2027.”
Dalung, a vocal critic of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) despite being a founding member, accused the Tinubu government of failing to address the hardship faced by ordinary Nigerians, adding that the people are fast losing patience.
“Nigerians should brace up for 2027,” he said. “Because the battle line has been drawn by the government itself. It has declared war on the people through economic hardship, insecurity, and oppressive governance.”
Dalung’s remarks come amid growing public discontent over inflation, rising unemployment, and fuel subsidy removal policies that have worsened the cost of living. Several protests have erupted across the country in recent months, while labour unions continue to pressure the government over wage and welfare issues.
Although President Tinubu’s camp has yet to respond officially to Dalung’s comments, analysts view the statement as part of a growing wave of political resistance ahead of the 2027 elections.
Dalung, who hails from Plateau State and is known for his outspokenness, has increasingly distanced himself from the APC’s current leadership and hinted at aligning with opposition forces to challenge the ruling party in the next election cycle.