Presidential Primary That Produced Atiku Fell Below My Expectations – Dalung

Former Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Solomon Dalung, has openly criticised the presidential primary election of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), describing the exercise as disappointing and below the standard expected of a party seeking to offer Nigerians a credible alternative ahead of future elections.

Dalung, who served as chairman of the ADC presidential primary election committee, expressed regret over the conduct of the exercise that eventually produced former Vice President Atiku Abubakar as the party’s presidential candidate.

Speaking during an interview on a podcast hosted by journalist Seun Okinbaloye, the former minister said he was not satisfied with the way the primary election was conducted, arguing that the process failed to meet democratic expectations.

According to him, Nigeria’s political system should have evolved beyond allegations of manipulation and irregularities in party primaries after more than two decades of uninterrupted democratic rule.

“I am not proud of the presidential primary that produced Atiku Abubakar because it fell short of my expectations,” Dalung said.

He noted that although the ADC-led coalition remains in existence, it has lost some of the momentum and strength it previously enjoyed during preparations for the 2027 general elections.

The former minister lamented that despite serving as an electoral official during the exercise and witnessing events firsthand, the process did not reflect the level of transparency and fairness he had hoped for.

“We should have done much better. After 26 or 27 years of democracy, Nigerians should not still be discussing issues such as rigging of primaries or the falsification of election results,” he stated.

Coalition Still Alive but Weakened

While acknowledging the shortcomings of the primary election, Dalung insisted that the coalition behind the ADC has not collapsed. However, he admitted that internal developments have reduced its effectiveness and public appeal.

His comments are likely to fuel fresh debate about the credibility of opposition parties and their ability to present a united front ahead of future electoral contests.

Dalung Attacks Federal Government Over Security Crisis

Beyond electoral politics, Dalung also launched a scathing attack on the administration of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), accusing it of failing to address the country’s deepening security challenges.

During a separate appearance on Arise Television’s Morning Show, the former minister questioned the government’s commitment to tackling terrorism, banditry and other forms of violent crime across the country.

According to him, authorities appear more capable of tracking and arresting critics of government policies than pursuing terrorists and criminal groups operating in forests and remote communities.

Dalung argued that the continued attacks by bandits and insurgents demonstrate a lack of political will to confront insecurity decisively.

“They have the capacity to track citizens who criticise the government and locate them within minutes, yet they seem unable to track terrorists who openly display large sums of money in forest camps,” he said.

‘Government Has Failed on Security’

The former minister maintained that Nigerians have shown a willingness to support efforts aimed at defeating terrorism, but claimed that the Federal Government has failed to match that determination with effective action.

He accused the APC-led administration of lacking practical solutions to the security threats confronting various parts of the country.

According to Dalung, the worsening security situation has left many communities vulnerable and has severely affected freedom of movement in several states.

“The Federal Government has completely failed in addressing insecurity, and what is more troubling is that there appears to be no clear solution being offered,” he stated.

Raises Alarm Over Situation in Plateau

Dalung specifically highlighted the situation in Plateau State, where he said insecurity has reached alarming levels.

According to him, many roads have become unsafe not only because of attacks by terrorists but also because displaced and frustrated residents sometimes block highways in protest after suffering repeated assaults from armed groups.

He warned that prolonged insecurity and the displacement of communities could further complicate efforts to restore peace and stability if urgent measures are not taken.

His remarks add to growing criticism from political figures, civil society groups and security analysts who have repeatedly called for stronger strategies to combat terrorism, banditry and communal violence across Nigeria.

As debates over governance, security and electoral reforms continue, Dalung’s comments are expected to intensify discussions about the country’s preparedness for future elections and its ability to address the persistent challenges facing millions of Nigerians.