Opposition Coalition Rift deepens as Solomon Dalung blames greed and ambition for fragmentation ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 elections
Former Minister of Sports and Youths Development, Solomon Dalung, on Friday, June 5, 2026, criticised the state of Nigeria’s opposition politics, warning that an emerging Opposition Coalition Rift driven by personal ambition and political rivalry could undermine prospects ahead of the 2027 general elections.
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Solomon Dalung made the remarks during an appearance on Arise Television’s Morning Show, where he expressed concern that expectations of a united opposition bloc capable of challenging the ruling establishment had been weakened by internal divisions.
Dalung said the fragmentation of opposition leaders had effectively dashed hopes of a coordinated political front, describing the situation as one in which individual ambition had taken precedence over collective national interest.
He lamented that what once appeared to be a potential rescue coalition had now been overtaken by what he termed greed and self-interest among political actors.
According to him, the growing number of presidential aspirants across different political platforms reflects a deepening division that mirrors Nigeria’s First Republic political structure, where regional loyalties played a dominant role.
Dalung warned that the trend could lead to what he described as electoral confusion in 2027, with candidates increasingly relying on regional strongholds rather than national consensus.
He further argued that the opposition political class appeared more focused on personal ambition and access to power than on building a unified front capable of presenting a strong alternative in the elections.
The former minister noted that this fragmentation has already reshaped the political landscape, with multiple zones now producing presidential candidates and competing interests pulling in different directions.
Dalung said the development could weaken national cohesion in the electoral process, stressing that voters may be increasingly mobilised along regional lines rather than ideological or national considerations.
He described the situation as a worrying setback for democratic consolidation, noting that unity within the opposition was critical to offering Nigerians a credible alternative in 2027.
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Despite his concerns, Dalung maintained that political actors still have time to rethink their strategies and rebuild trust if they prioritise national interest over personal ambition.
