Former Minister of Transport, Rotimi Amaechi, has made strong allegations against Nigerian politicians, stating that they are primarily in power to steal, kill, and maintain control.
Amaechi made these remarks while speaking at the National Conference on Strengthening Democracy in Nigeria, an event focused on improving governance and political integrity in the country.
During his speech, Amaechi criticized the general attitude of Nigerians towards politicians, suggesting that many citizens have short memories and fail to hold leaders accountable.
“All we hear here is typical Nigeria, and you’re clapping. That’s why politicians get away with anything. They get away with murder because you have a short memory. None of you here can defend the votes. You have complained; Nigerians have been clapping for you,” he said.
Amaechi also addressed the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, suggesting that the political landscape would remain the same. He noted that Nigerians often forget past events, which allows politicians to continue in power without significant consequences.
He further stated, “Before the election of the last president, a lot of us were called to intervene. Why did they do that? The people were ready to die. You’re talking and abusing everybody; nobody has power and will give to you. Not even me. If you want a pastor as president, go and get one.
“The politician is there in Nigeria to steal, to maim, to kill, and to remain in power. If you think Tinubu will give it to you, you are wasting your time. When we speak, we forget history.”
Reflecting on his own political journey, Amaechi shared that his involvement in Nigerian politics began out of necessity due to poverty.
“Unfortunately for me, poverty has made me part of the political system since I left university in 1987, and I’ve been part of the process till today,” he noted.
He also spoke about his role in shaping the All Progressives Congress (APC) and his influence within the party.
“You can’t wish me away in the formation of APC; you certainly can wish me away. You can’t wish me away in how APC won election, you can’t.
“But the truth is that if some of us did not stick out our necks to say PDP, Goodluck, we want to die with you. When they saw that we were ready to die, they gave up power,” he said.
Amaechi went on to describe how some political rallies in Nigeria are transactional, with people attending events in exchange for money. He recalled an instance in Lagos where attendees admitted they were paid to be there and would show up for any politician willing to pay them again.
He also shared a story from an APC event at Eagles Square in Abuja, where money was allocated to transport women to the rally. However, upon arriving early, he noticed that these same women were wearing attire that supported former President Goodluck Jonathan.
In response to Amaechi’s remarks, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar shared a similar experience, stating, “Let me intervene here… because when Odili was in office as a governor, we went on a rally, and the entire stadium was filled to capacity, but before we could finish the rally, everybody had left. We were left alone, and then I asked what happened; he said they paid for only two hours.”
