Former Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi, has warned that President Bola Tinubu and Nigerian politicians will not willingly hand over power to the younger generation, stressing that elections in the country are often won through extreme measures.
Speaking in Abuja at a national conference on strengthening democracy in Nigeria, organized by the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy, and Development, Amaechi painted a grim picture of Nigeria’s political landscape, asserting that power is retained through force rather than democratic processes.
‘Politicians Will Steal, Maim, and Kill to Stay in Power’
Amaechi, a former Minister of Transportation, argued that politicians in Nigeria prioritize power at any cost and that public demands for change will not automatically lead to a transition. He referenced historical events in Nigeria and Ghana to support his claim.
"None of you here can defend the votes," he said. "If you complain, Nigerians will clap for you, but nothing will change. The only reason Ibrahim Shekarau became governor was because people lined up and fought for their votes."
Using Ghana as an example, he added:
"Before the last election in Ghana, many of us were called to intervene. Why? Because the people were ready to die."
‘If You Want Change, Fight for It’
Amaechi challenged Nigerians who desire change to take active steps rather than relying on politicians to relinquish power.
"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."
He directly addressed expectations that President Tinubu would voluntarily step aside for younger leaders, stating:
"If you think Tinubu will give it to you, you are wasting your time."
How APC Won in 2015
Reflecting on the 2015 presidential election, Amaechi credited the All Progressives Congress (APC)’s victory to the determination of party leaders to go the extra mile. According to him, former President Goodluck Jonathan conceded defeat not out of goodwill but because the APC was fully prepared to defend its mandate.
He urged Nigerians to adopt similar levels of political vigilance in future elections, reinforcing his belief that power is not freely given but taken through strategic efforts.
Amaechi’s remarks have sparked debates on the realities of Nigerian democracy and the extent to which political leaders will go to secure their grip on power.
