Solomon Dalung’s political claims about Tinubu and El-Rufai spark debate as he alleges influence, alliances and legal pressure ahead of 2027 elections
Former Minister of Youths and Sports, Solomon Dalung, has alleged that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is politically wary of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, making a series of controversial claims about their relationship and the events leading up to the 2023 presidential election.
Also read: Top North-Central Politician: Solomon Dalung
Dalung made the remarks during an interview on Mic on Podcast, where he described El-Rufai as a central figure in Tinubu’s emergence as President, insisting that the former governor played a decisive role in securing northern political support.
Solomon Dalung’s allegations on Tinubu and El-Rufai political relations have since drawn attention due to the former minister’s assertion that El-Rufai was instrumental in mobilising northern governors and political stakeholders in favour of Tinubu’s candidacy.
According to Dalung, El-Rufai was actively involved in campaign efforts, including strategic engagements with political leaders and public appearances that helped shape support for Tinubu ahead of the 2023 election.
He further alleged that there is an ongoing attempt to keep El-Rufai entangled in legal proceedings, suggesting that repeated court appearances and bail conditions were part of a broader political strategy to limit his influence before the 2027 elections.
Dalung claimed that such legal challenges could weaken El-Rufai’s political relevance, adding that prolonged court processes may prevent him from playing a significant role in future political developments.
He also asserted that Tinubu’s rise to power was significantly supported by El-Rufai’s political network, describing the former governor as a key strategist in the 2023 electoral process.
The remarks have added to ongoing political discussions surrounding alliances and rivalries among prominent figures within Nigeria’s political landscape.
Also read: Solomon Dalung alleges INEC acts as opposition party
Neither the Presidency nor Nasir El-Rufai has publicly responded to the allegations at the time of filing this report.
