“Amaechi’s Bold Statement: Politicians in Nigeria Are Here to Steal, Kill, and Stay in Power”
At the National Conference on Strengthening Democracy in Nigeria earlier this week, former Minister of Transport, Rotimi Amaechi, delivered a striking commentary on the state of Nigerian politics. With sharp words and an unapologetic tone, Amaechi claimed that the true nature of the political system in Nigeria is one of theft, violence, and an unshakable drive for power.
“All we hear here is the typical Nigeria, and you’re all clapping,” Amaechi said to a room of political leaders and concerned citizens. “That’s why politicians get away with murder—they know you’ll forget, and you’ll keep clapping. You forget the truth, and then you wonder why nothing changes.”
In a direct challenge to the current political climate under President Bola Tinubu, Amaechi warned that Nigeria’s political corruption would persist. He pointed out the short memory of the Nigerian people and their complacency, which only enables the corrupt system to thrive.
Amaechi’s criticism wasn’t just aimed at the present government. He traced his own involvement in Nigerian politics to his years of struggle, noting that poverty had pushed him into the political arena since his graduation in 1987. His remarks also highlighted the stark realities of political life, where personal ambition often supersedes national progress.
“A Politician’s Purpose: Steal, Kill, and Retain Power,” Amaechi Declares
Amaechi didn’t hold back when describing the role of politicians in Nigeria. “The politician is here to steal, to maim, to kill, and to stay in power,” he bluntly stated. His words painted a grim picture of the political landscape, one where integrity and public service are often sidelined in favor of personal gain.
He also recounted the struggle leading up to the election of the last president, when political leaders like himself were forced to take drastic measures to protect their positions and influence. According to Amaechi, many politicians are motivated not by the welfare of the people, but by the power to control and profit from the system.
“Before the last election, many of us were called in for a reason: the people were ready to die for it. But those in power won’t give up easily—not even for me,” he said. “If you want a pastor as president, go find one.”
“You Can’t Just Wish Me Away”: Amaechi Reflects on His Legacy in APC Politics
Amaechi took a moment to reflect on his own role in Nigerian politics, particularly within the All Progressives Congress (APC). “You can’t wish me away in the formation of APC,” he emphasized, making it clear that his involvement has been pivotal in shaping the party’s trajectory.
He also shared how his commitment to the cause had led him to stake everything, even his life, in the battle for power. “We said we were ready to die with Goodluck Jonathan,” he said, recalling the dramatic efforts made to secure the presidency. “When they saw that we were serious, they gave up power.”
Political Rallies: A Game of Money and Manipulation
Amaechi also lifted the curtain on the transactional nature of political rallies. He shared a revealing story about an APC demonstration in Abuja, where money was distributed to ensure attendance. He was taken aback when he saw the women who had been bused in wearing “Jonathan for President” shirts.
This candid admission of the influence of money in shaping political rallies was echoed by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar. Atiku shared his own experience, recounting a rally in which attendees were only paid to stay for a brief time, highlighting the transactional nature of Nigerian political events.
Together, Amaechi and Atiku’s revelations offer a sobering look at the dark underbelly of Nigerian politics—a system that thrives on manipulation, corruption, and short-term loyalty.
