In a recent interview on Symfoni TV, former Minister of Sports and Youth Development, Solomon Dalung, offered personal insight into his long-standing relationship with former Rivers State Governor and current Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, while also reflecting on the broader political tensions shaping Nigeria’s democracy.
According to Dalung, “Wike is my very good friend; in fact, when he was governor of Rivers State, I stood by him firmly.” He explained that their relationship was built during periods of intense political pressure, when loyalty and principle were tested. Dalung noted that despite shifting political alliances and sharp disagreements in today’s political climate, personal relationships forged in moments of struggle should not be casually erased or rewritten.
The former minister emphasized that political friendship does not necessarily translate into agreement on every issue, especially as national circumstances evolve. He argued that Nigeria’s politics has become increasingly polarized, with former allies now positioned on opposing sides of national debates. According to him, this reality should not automatically invalidate past support or shared history, but rather be understood as part of a dynamic political system.
Dalung used the opportunity to criticize what he described as the growing intolerance within Nigeria’s political space, where disagreement is often treated as betrayal. He warned that such an atmosphere discourages honest engagement and weakens democratic culture. In his view, democracy thrives on debate, dissent, and the freedom to evolve politically without being demonized.
Beyond personal relationships, Dalung also touched on governance and public accountability, stressing that political leaders must ultimately be judged by their impact on citizens’ welfare rather than by elite loyalty networks. He argued that Nigerians are more concerned with insecurity, economic hardship, and shrinking democratic space than with political rivalries among powerful figures.
He concluded by urging political actors to separate personal relationships from national interest, insisting that while friendships may endure, governance must remain people-centered. Dalung maintained that Nigeria’s future depends on leaders who respect democratic values, tolerate dissent, and place the well-being of citizens above personal or political alliances.
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