Former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, has alleged that many Nigerian politicians seek office solely to steal, kill, and cling to power, decrying the deep-rooted corruption in the political system.
Speaking at the National Conference on Strengthening Democracy in Nigeria, Amaechi criticized the lack of accountability in Nigerian politics and the public’s tendency to quickly forget past injustices.
He argued that this collective short memory allows politicians to act with impunity.
“All we hear here is typical Nigeria, and you’re clapping. That’s why politicians get away with anything,” he said.
He further asserted that Nigerian politicians escape consequences because the public fails to hold them accountable.
“They get away with murder because you have a short memory. None of you here can defend the votes. You have complained; Nigerians have been clapping for you.”
Amaechi also suggested that the current political climate under President Bola Tinubu would remain unchanged, as Nigerians often overlook past political failures.
He urged citizens to remember history instead of expecting reform from leaders who perpetuate the same patterns of governance.
Reflecting on his own political journey, Amaechi revealed that his entry into politics was driven by poverty and necessity after graduating in 1987.
He also emphasized his critical role in forming the All Progressives Congress and securing its victory in the 2015 elections.
“You can’t wish me away in the formation of APC; you certainly can’t wish me away. You can’t wish me away on how APC won the election, you can’t. But the truth is that if some of us did not stick out our necks to say PDP, Goodluck, we want to die with you,” he stated, referencing his stance against former President Goodluck Jonathan.
Amaechi also shed light on the role of financial inducements in Nigerian politics.
Recounting his experience at an APC rally, he claimed that many attendees were paid to be there, regardless of their actual political affiliations.
He recalled seeing women wearing “Jonathan for President” shirts at an APC event and was later told that they had been paid to attend.
“If tomorrow Tinubu comes with the same transport money, they will also come,” he said, highlighting the transactional nature of political rallies in Nigeria.
