Former Minister of Transportation and two-term Governor of Rivers State, Rotimi Amaechi, has launched a scathing critique of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, declaring that former President Muhammadu Buhari performed better “by all standards.”
Amaechi made the remarks during an appearance on Politics Today, a current affairs program aired by Channels Television on Thursday.
“Not everything was achieved. Buhari will tell you he did not achieve all he planned for. But then, he was better than the current government by all standards,” Amaechi stated.
The former minister cited insecurity, economic decline, and compromised institutional independence as key areas in which the current administration has underperformed. He accused the Tinubu-led government of worsening poverty and deepening inequality across the country.
Amaechi also expressed disapproval of what he described as misplaced priorities by the Tinubu administration. He referenced the President’s recent commissioning of a 16-kilometre road as an example of underwhelming achievement.
“I feel ashamed for a President commissioning 16 kilometres of road. That’s what a local government chairman should be doing,” he said.
According to Amaechi, Tinubu’s government has failed to implement economic policies that improve the lives of ordinary Nigerians. He questioned the transparency and impact of key reforms such as the removal of fuel subsidies and the floating of the naira.
“You’re making savings from removing the subsidy and floating the naira. Where is the money? Where is it going?” he queried.
Accusations Against INEC and Allegations of Political Suppression
Amaechi also alleged that the independence of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has deteriorated under the Tinubu administration. He claimed that the electoral body is being influenced by government officials to prevent the registration of new political parties.
“Those who applied to INEC for registration — their rents have expired. The process is being frustrated,” he said.
He maintained that his criticism of the current administration was not personal and dismissed suggestions that he is motivated by political exclusion.
“I never stole anything in politics. I’m not in opposition because Tinubu didn’t give me an appointment. I’m not interested in any appointment,” he said.
“If Tinubu was doing well, I’d be the first to sing his praises.”
2027 Ambitions and Coalition Building
Amaechi, who contested for the APC presidential ticket in 2022, also reiterated his readiness to lead Nigeria. He referenced his leadership experience as former Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly and as minister under the Buhari government.
“Can I lead Nigeria? Yes. I have led as a Speaker, and I was one of the best Speakers in this country,” he said.
“Nigerians would not be this hungry if I had become President. There is no way insecurity would be this bad under my leadership.”
As part of efforts to position himself ahead of the 2027 elections, Amaechi disclosed that he is working with other political actors through a coalition anchored by the African Democratic Congress (ADC). He noted that the proposed All Democratic Alliance (ADA), a merger platform, is under consideration by the coalition.
