Former Minister of Transport, Rotimi Amaechi, has revealed that his continued involvement in politics since 1987 has been driven by poverty and survival, rather than personal ambition.
Speaking at the National Conference on Strengthening Democracy in Nigeria, Amaechi painted a grim picture of Nigerian politics, admitting that many politicians remain in power to steal, maim, and kill in a desperate bid to retain control.
‘Politicians Won’t Voluntarily Surrender Power’
Amaechi argued that power in Nigeria is not freely given, but rather taken by force. He dismissed any hope that those in authority, including President Bola Tinubu, would willingly hand over leadership to the next generation.
"None of you here can defend the votes. If you have complained, complain; Nigerians have been clapping for you," he stated.
Using historical examples, he cited how Ibrahim Shekarau became governor due to mass mobilization and referenced a similar situation in Ghana, where people were prepared to risk their lives for electoral justice.
"It happened in Ghana before the election of the last president. Many of us were called to intervene because the people were ready to die."
He went further to challenge those calling for change, saying:
"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."
‘Poverty Made Me Stay in Politics’
The former Rivers State governor admitted that financial struggles pushed him into politics and have kept him there for over three decades.
"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."
Amaechi’s Role in APC and 2015 Election Victory
Amaechi emphasized his crucial role in the formation of the APC and its 2015 electoral victory over the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Goodluck Jonathan.
"You can’t wish me away in the formation of APC; you certainly can’t wish me away. You can’t wish me away in how APC won the election—you can’t," he declared.
He revealed that PDP only conceded power in 2015 after realizing that some APC leaders were willing to put their lives on the line.
"If some of us did not stick out our necks to say PDP, Goodluck, we want to die with you—when they saw that we were ready to die, they gave up power."
What Next for Amaechi?
Amaechi’s remarks reflect the harsh realities of Nigerian politics, where survival and power often take precedence over service and governance. His confession has sparked debates on political integrity, poverty-driven leadership, and the future of democracy in Nigeria.
With 2027 elections on the horizon, will Amaechi continue his political journey, or will his reflections push him toward a different path?
