- Says, Politicians Steal, Kill, Maim to Remain in Power
By Abiola Olawale
The immediate-past Minister of Transportation and two term governor of Rivers State, Rotimi Amaechi has made strong revelations regarding political power in Nigeria and why the people should fight, be ready to die for power if they desire it.
This is as Amaechi, a two-term governor of Rivers State emphasized that power in Nigeria is not something that will be handed over freely but rather something one must fight for and ready to die for in the process.
Amaechi, who spoke in Abuja at a national conference on strengthening democracy in Nigeria, organized by the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy, and Development, highlighted that Nigerian politicians allegedly engage in extreme measures to retain power, including stealing, maiming and killing.
According to him, Nigerians must be prepared to safeguard their votes to ensure credible leadership.
He specifically underlined the point that anyone who is expecting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to simply give power away is unrealistic, urging citizens to be proactive in their political engagement if they wish to see change or influence political outcomes in 2027.
He asserted: “None of you here can defend the votes. If you have complained, complain, Nigerians have been clapping for you. The only way Ibrahim Shekarau became governor was because people lined up.
“It happened in Ghana before the election of the last president. Two days later, many of us were called to intervene. Why? Because the people were ready to die.
“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.”
It would be recalled that Amaechi has been a vocal critic of Tinubu’s administration.
In October 2024, Amaechi expressed his deep disappointment with the Nigerian populace for their seemingly indifferent attitude towards what he described as “the severe economic hardships gripping the nation.”
He lamented how many appeared resigned and unresponsive, even as the challenges intensified.
Recall also that Amaechi was one of the 14 aspirants who sought the presidential ticket of the APC before the 2023 general election.
He polled second in the primary election with 316 votes, behind the factual and ultimate winner Tinubu, who secured 1,271 votes.
