Former Rivers State governor, Rotimi Amaechi, has stated that President Bola Tinubu will not easily hand over power to the younger generation, stressing that Nigerian politicians do whatever it takes to maintain control. Speaking at a national conference on strengthening democracy in Nigeria, organized by the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy, and Development in Abuja, Amaechi painted a bleak picture of the country’s political landscape.
According to him, politicians in Nigeria are willing to go to extreme lengths to secure electoral victories and retain power, regardless of the people’s desire for change. He noted that history, both in Nigeria and Ghana, has shown that power is rarely given away willingly.
“None of you here can defend the votes,” Amaechi stated. “If you have complained, complain. Nigerians have been clapping for you. The only way Ibrahim Shekarau became governor was because people lined up.” He recalled similar events in Ghana, explaining how the people’s determination to fight for their rights was a crucial factor in political transitions.
He further emphasized that political power in Nigeria is fiercely guarded. “You are talking and abusing everybody. Nobody has power and will give it to you—not even me. If you want a pastor as president, go and get one,” he said.
Amaechi made a blunt assessment of Nigerian politicians, stating, “The politician in Nigeria is there to steal, maim, and kill to remain in power.” He warned young Nigerians against expecting power to be voluntarily transferred, adding, “If you think Tinubu will give it to you, you are wasting your time.”
His remarks highlight the entrenched challenges within Nigeria’s political system, where power is often retained through force, manipulation, and strategic maneuvering, rather than democratic transitions based on the will of the people.
