Former Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi, has spoken about his decision not to support President Bola Tinubu. Amaechi stated that his choice was influenced by concerns over insecurity, protection of lives and property, and the Federal Government's handling of political dissent. He expressed these views in an interview on AIT. Amaechi emphasized the importance of creating jobs and growing the economy to tackle banditry and terrorism.
According to Amaechi, providing people with legitimate sources of livelihood can reduce the attraction of criminal activities. As the African Democratic Congress (ADC) vice-presidential candidate to Atiku Abubakar in the 2027 presidential election, Amaechi reflected on his approach to insecurity during his tenure as Rivers governor. He took action due to what he perceived as the Federal Government's inaction in protecting residents at the time.
Amaechi criticized Tinubu's administration over insecurity, arguing that the Constitution places a responsibility on the President to protect lives and property. He claimed that the administration is not worthy of being in power due to its handling of insecurity. Amaechi also accused the administration of focusing on arrests of political opponents and protesters rather than addressing insecurity.
The former governor cited specific instances, including the alleged arrest of three people at an ADC meeting in Port Harcourt and reported arrests of protesters in Borno and Kaduna. Amaechi further criticized politicians who become more vocal about democracy when outside government but change their positions after gaining power. He compared Tinubu's administration to the military government of General Sani Abacha.
Amaechi stated that he deliberately chose not to join Tinubu's government and recalled telling the President directly that he would not support him. He said he had the choice to support Tinubu but opted not to. Amaechi's decision not to support Tinubu was based on his concerns about the President's handling of insecurity and dissent.
As the 2027 presidential election approaches, Amaechi's comments are seen as significant. He is currently the ADC vice-presidential candidate to Atiku Abubakar. Amaechi's criticism of Tinubu's administration reflects the ongoing debates about insecurity and governance in Nigeria. The issue of insecurity remains a major challenge for the country.
The conversation around Amaechi's decision not to support Tinubu is part of a broader discussion on the state of Nigerian politics. Various stakeholders continue to engage in conversations about the future of the country and the kind of leadership it needs to address its challenges. The 2027 election is expected to be a pivotal moment in Nigeria's democratic journey.
Key points
- Amaechi criticizes Tinubu's administration for its handling of insecurity and dissent.
- He emphasizes the need for job creation and economic growth to tackle banditry and terrorism.
- Amaechi chose not to support Tinubu due to concerns over the President's approach to governance.
