Ex-Sports Minister Solomon Dalung Demands FG Expose Terror Sponsors, Warns of Growing Insecurity

Former Minister of Sports Solomon Dalung has called on the Federal Government to publish the names of terrorism sponsors if it truly wants Nigerians to believe it is serious about fighting insurgency.

                                            

Dalung, who hails from Plateau State, said in a statement on Thursday that the government’s reluctance to act decisively despite alleged evidence of terror financing is deepening public distrust.

Dalung accused the government of hiding behind “half-truths and diversions” instead of prosecuting those who promote and finance terrorism. He pointed to repeated assurances from security agencies and politicians that never materialized into real accountability.

“Nigeria is nearing a breaking point. Unless names are released, prosecutions initiated, and reforms like state and community policing enacted, insecurity will only worsen,” he warned.

The former minister referenced Yusuf Gagdi, House of Representatives member for Pankshin/Kanke/Kanam, who has consistently opposed the creation of state police. Dalung said Gagdi’s position is hypocritical, given the persistent attacks, kidnappings, and killings in his constituency.

According to him, the federal security structure has not fared any better than what state police could potentially achieve.

Dalung also revisited allegations that prominent figures may have ties to terror financing:

• Senator Shehu Buba (Bauchi South): Reportedly linked to aiding terrorists but never invited by the DSS.

• Nasir El-Rufai (former Kaduna governor): Accused by National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu of supporting bandits, yet no charges filed.

• UAE’s alleged terror sponsor list: Names reportedly handed to Nigeria but never released publicly.

He criticized the government for silence, questioning why those fingered have not been interrogated or prosecuted.

Dalung recalled that Gen. Christopher Musa, Chief of Defence Staff, once promised to release the names of terror financiers. That commitment, he said, remains unfulfilled, fueling perceptions that the government is shielding powerful individuals.

The ex-minister’s remarks highlight a growing demand for transparency and accountability in Nigeria’s war against terror. Without naming and prosecuting financiers, Dalung argues, insurgency will thrive, displacement will grow, and citizens’ trust in government will continue to erode.