Get Guardian on GoogleFormer Minister of Youth and Sports Solomon Dalung says governors must allow opposition parties to organise freely, describing political tolerance as a constitutional obligation rather than a favour from those in power.
Dalung made the remarks while commending Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed for reportedly allowing the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to mobilise in the state without intimidation or obstruction.
“Political tolerance is not a favour a governor grants to the opposition; it is a constitutional obligation,” Dalung said.
He argued that the right to organise and challenge an incumbent should be protected regardless of which party holds power. The political space available to one opposition party today, he said, could be needed by another tomorrow.
Dalung also raised concern over reports of obstruction and attacks targeting opposition activities in some states. He said political rivals should not be treated as enemies of the state, and that opposition parties must be free to make their case to voters.
“Power is transient. The Constitution is not,” he said, urging governors across party lines to uphold constitutional rights and protect peaceful political activity.
Dalung’s statement praised Mohammed’s reported handling of the ADC’s mobilisation in Bauchi, while calling on public officials elsewhere to ensure that partisan differences do not restrict lawful political engagement.
