Former Rivers State governor, Rotimi Amaechi, has warned Nigerians that politicians, including President Bola Tinubu, will not easily surrender power to the younger generation.
He noted that the path to securing power in Nigeria is not a simple one and requires a willingness to fight for it, as politicians often use extreme methods to retain control.
Amaechi made these remarks during a national conference on strengthening democracy, held in Abuja by the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy, and Development.
In his speech, he explained that Nigerian politicians are fiercely protective of their power and will go to great lengths to prevent losing it, regardless of public demands for change. He referred to several historical examples from both Nigeria and Ghana to support his argument.
“None of you here can defend the votes,” he said. “If you have complained, complain, Nigerians have been clapping for you. The only way Ibrahim Shekarau became governor was because people lined up.”
He continued, “It happened in Ghana before the election of the last president. Two days, many of us were called to intervene. Why? Because the people were ready to die.”
Amaechi further stated, “You are talking and abusing everybody. Nobody has power and will give it to you—not even me. If you want a pastor as president, go and get one.
“The politician in Nigeria is there to steal, maim, and kill to remain in power.
“If you think Tinubu will give it to you, you are wasting your time,” Amaechi added, stressing the need for political vigilance.
