Dalung's unfounded allegations against Gov. Fintiri: A political ploy

By Tom Garba

Sanusi Hong, a key member of the People's Democratic Party (PDP) from Adamawa Central Senatorial District, has responded to accusations made by former Sports Minister, Barrister Solomon Dalung.

Dalung had alleged that Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State was involved in the abduction of a teenager who had shared a TikTok video highlighting poor conditions at his school.

Hong dismissed Dalung's claims as baseless, stating that no such case of a missing person has been reported in Adamawa. He commented:

“Barrister Solomon Dalung's accusations against Governor Fintiri, based on a viral TikTok video, are not only groundless but also misleading. It’s clear Dalung has no knowledge of the hard work Governor Fintiri has put into developing Adamawa State. The governor has been focused on delivering key achievements under his 'Fresh Air' agenda, which includes security, education, healthcare, and infrastructure development for both urban and rural areas.”

Hong also questioned the credibility of Dalung’s claims, given that the former minister resides in Plateau State. He noted that no one in Adamawa had reported such an incident, raising doubts about the source and intent behind Dalung’s accusations.

“Instead of spreading unfounded allegations, Dalung should address the challenges within his own political career. Governor Fintiri has been running a respectful and dignified administration, and the accusations against him lack any foundation,” Hong added.

Hong further highlighted Governor Fintiri’s achievements, especially in education, citing the governor's prompt payment of teachers’ salaries, infrastructure development in all 21 Local Government Areas, and his commitment to the N70,000 minimum wage.

“Governor Fintiri’s efforts in the education sector have not gone unnoticed. He was awarded the 2023 Best Governor of the Year by the Nigeria Service Award Panel of Jury. This was due to his initiatives such as covering WAEC and NECO fees for public school students, renovating dilapidated schools, and hiring hundreds of new teachers.”

Hong also refuted Dalung's claims that Governor Fintiri had ordered the assault of a young man who posted the critical TikTok video, calling it a case of "political mischief" orchestrated by Dalung's political sponsors. He criticized Dalung's approach, saying:

“Dalung’s allegations are not just baseless, they’re a clear attempt to deceive the public. It’s unfortunate that a former minister who failed to perform in office is now engaging in politics of personal attacks.”

Hong concluded by advising Dalung to reconsider his political tactics and focus on facts. He encouraged the former minister to visit Adamawa and witness the progress firsthand rather than relying on falsehoods.

“Dalung should act like the leader Nigerians once hoped he could be, instead of resorting to spreading misinformation. If he continues down this path, he risks becoming irrelevant in the political landscape,” Hong remarked.