Former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, has said that President Bola Tinubu will not voluntarily cede power to young Nigerians without a serious struggle.
Amaechi, who spoke in Abuja at a national conference on strengthening democracy in Nigeria, emphasized that politicians will do anything to remain in power, including stealing, maiming, and killing.
Addressing the audience at the event, organised by the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy and Development, Amaechi stressed the need for political vigilance, warning that power must be fought for rather than expected to be handed over.
“None of you here seated can defend the votes. If you have complained, complain—Nigerians have been clapping for you,” he said.
“The only way Ibrahim Shekarau became governor was because people lined up.”
Drawing comparisons, Amaechi recalled how Ghana’s citizens took extreme measures to ensure electoral transparency before their last presidential election.
“It happened in Ghana before the election of the last president. Two days, a lot of us were called to intervene. But why did they do that? The people were ready to die,” he said.
He further dismissed the idea that political officeholders would relinquish power willingly.
“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 is there in Nigeria to steal, maim, and kill to remain in power. If you think Tinubu will give it to you, you are wasting your time.”
The former Rivers State governor recounted his experience during the 2015 presidential election, when the newly formed All Progressives Congress (APC) defeated the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
He attributed APC’s victory to the determination and readiness of its leaders to defend their mandate at all costs.
Amaechi noted that Jonathan conceded defeat only after realising that APC was fully prepared to defend its victory.
