Former Nigerian minister of transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, has attributed the death of his mother to the economic policies implemented by President Bola Tinubu's administration. In an interview on Channels Television, Amaechi discussed the impact of the Federal Government's economic reforms on Nigerians. He claimed that his mother's health deteriorated under Tinubu's policies. Amaechi's mother, Dame Ezinne Mary Amaechi, passed away in July 2026 at the age of 89.
Amaechi's comments sparked controversy as he questioned whether he had a personal responsibility to provide adequate care for his mother. He cited the large number of people he financially supports, asking if he had a choice. The former Rivers State governor's statements came amid criticism of the Tinubu administration's economic policies and their impact on the cost of living. Many Nigerians have expressed concerns about the rising cost of living under the current administration.
The former governor criticised the Tinubu administration's economic policies, particularly their effect on the cost of living. He challenged the Federal Government to name a major project completed under the present administration. Amaechi compared the current administration's record to that of the Muhammadu Buhari administration. He cited the Abuja-Kaduna railway as an example of a major project completed under Buhari.
Amaechi further criticised the government's handling of the economy, alleging that Nigerians are experiencing greater hardship under the present administration. The former governor's comments reflect the concerns of many Nigerians who are struggling with the current economic situation. The Tinubu administration has been working to address these concerns, but its efforts have been met with scepticism.
Dame Ezinne Mary Amaechi was buried on September 5, 2026, in Ubima, Ikwerre Local Government Area of Rivers State. The former governor's mother was 89 years old when she passed away. Amaechi's decision to speak publicly about his mother's death and its connection to Tinubu's policies has sparked a national conversation about the impact of economic policies on ordinary Nigerians.
Amaechi is set to run for office again, this time on the platform of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in the 2027 polls. He will be running a joint ticket with Atiku Abubakar. The former governor's comments are likely to resonate with many Nigerians who are concerned about the current economic situation and its impact on their lives.
The controversy surrounding Amaechi's comments highlights the challenges facing the Tinubu administration as it seeks to address the country's economic woes. The administration will need to balance the need for economic reform with the need to protect the welfare of ordinary Nigerians. The debate over economic policies is likely to continue in the lead-up to the 2027 polls.
Key points
- Amaechi blames Tinubu's economic policies for his mother's death
- The former governor criticises the administration's handling of the economy
- Amaechi challenges the government to name a major project completed under the present administration
