The All Progressives Congress (APC) and Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike have launched a fresh attack on former Transportation Minister Rotimi Amaechi. This comes after Amaechi attributed the death of his mother, Mary Amaechi, to economic hardship under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Amaechi claimed that the rising cost of medication made it difficult for him to procure his mother's medicines.
The APC, through its spokesman Felix Morka, described Amaechi as a "loafer" who cannot survive without public funds. The party questioned Amaechi's credentials to seek executive office, citing his inability to earn a living without state patronage. Morka stated that Amaechi's comments on national television revealed a man incapable of earning a living without state support.
Wike, for the second time within 24 hours, challenged Amaechi to account for $308 million proceeds from the sale of state-owned gas turbine power plants during his tenure as governor of Rivers State between 2007 and 2015. Wike accused Amaechi of politicizing his mother's death and demanded that he explain how $39 million earmarked for the Justice Karibi-Whyte Hospital was spent.
Wike also questioned Amaechi's achievements during his eight years as governor and eight years as transportation minister. He asked Amaechi to point to meaningful development and opportunities created for the people of Rivers State. Wike cited concrete gains secured for the area, including the appointment of Prof. Dimiri Mercury as vice-chancellor of Rivers State University.
The FCT Minister urged the people of Etche to reject politicians whose primary concern is political survival rather than development of their communities. He emphasized that political support should be based on tangible achievements and opportunities delivered to the people. Wike's comments were made at a town hall meeting with leaders, elders, and stakeholders of the Ogbakor in Etche Local Government Area of Rivers State.
The APC warned voters against supporting the ADC ticket, asserting that public leadership requires individuals capable of self-reliance. The party added that Amaechi's current complaints highlight personal irresponsibility rather than systemic failure. The APC also condoled with Amaechi and prayed for his good health.
Key points have emerged from the criticisms, including Amaechi's inability to account for funds and his lack of tangible achievements. The criticisms also raise questions about Amaechi's fitness for public office.
Key points
- APC and Wike criticize Amaechi for attributing his mother's death to economic hardship under Tinubu's leadership.
- Amaechi is challenged to account for $308 million proceeds from the sale of state-owned gas turbine power plants.
- Critics question Amaechi's fitness for public office and his ability to earn a living without state patronage.
