Wednesday, February 19, 2025
Home NEWS Nigerian politicians use power to steal, kill, retain control – Amaechi

Nigerian politicians use power to steal, kill, retain control – Amaechi

-

Nigerian politicians use power to steal, kill, retain control – Amaechi

By Jeffrey Agbo

Former Minister of Transport, Rotimi Amaechi, has boldly declared that Nigerian politicians in power are primarily focused on stealing, killing and maintaining their hold on office.

Amaechi made the statement at the National Conference on Strengthening Democracy in Nigeria, a gathering held earlier this week aimed at discussing better governance and political integrity.

- Advertisement -

While speaking at the conference, Amaechi criticised the public’s short memory, saying, 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.”

Amaechi directed his remarks at President Bola Tinubu, warning that the political environment would remain unchanged, with Nigerians forgetting key events from history. He remarked, “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.”

He continued by saying, “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 political career, Amaechi revealed that his entry into politics was driven by poverty and necessity. “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 said.

READ ALSO: Ex-minister, Amaechi, bags Master’s degree in Law from Kings College

- Advertisement -

He further emphasised his significant role in the formation of the All Progressives Congress (APC), stating that his influence in the party’s formation and electoral victories cannot be dismissed.

Amaechi also shared an anecdote that sheds light on the transactional nature of political rallies in Nigeria. He recalled how someone had told him that people were paid to attend events and that if offered transport money again, they would attend the next rally.

He also shared a story about an APC rally at the Eagles Square in Abuja, where he saw women who had been brought in by the event organisers. To his surprise, these women were wearing shirts with slogans supporting former President Goodluck Jonathan, highlighting the often opportunistic and financially motivated nature of political demonstrations.

In response to Amaechi’s comments, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar shared his own experience, recounting a rally held during the tenure of Governor Peter Odili of Rivers.

Atiku explained how the stadium was packed initially, but when the rally went on longer than expected, the attendees left because the event organisers only paid them for a two-hour event.

- Advertisment -

Must Read

BREAKING: Two suspected killers of Anambra lawmaker escape from police custody

0
Two suspected killers of Anambra lawmaker escape from police custody Two suspected killers of Justice Azuka, a member of...