Former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, has voiced his disappointment over the calm response of Nigerians to the country’s worsening economic situation.
The former Rivers State governor said he had anticipated widespread protests, especially among the youth, in reaction to the soaring cost of living.
In an interview with Igbere TV, Amaechi noted that the recent hike in fuel prices, coupled with the high cost of living, should have triggered more public outrage.
He expressed surprise at the muted response, stating that Nigerians have remained unusually calm despite the economic pressures.
“I expected more agitation, especially from the youth. I thought we would see protests in the streets, but it seems people are not expressing the kind of anger I expected,” Amaechi remarked.
His comments come after the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) increased fuel prices to ₦988 per litre, while other marketers have pegged prices as high as ₦1,200 to ₦1,300.
This latest hike adds to the growing economic burden faced by Nigerians.
Amaechi, who served in the immediate past administration for eight years, criticized the economic management of the country, stating that the rising cost of essential commodities, including diesel, has become unbearable for many, including himself.
“The price of diesel is at an all-time high, and even some of us are finding it difficult to afford it. Yet, the general public seems unmoved,” he lamented.
He also questioned the timing of political campaigns amid the crisis, using the recent Edo State elections as an example.
According to Amaechi, politicians should reconsider their actions given the dire economic situation.
“You cannot have a situation where a group of people are mismanaging resources and expect citizens to remain silent. I am truly baffled by the lack of action,” he concluded.
