Former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, has voiced his frustration over what he perceives as the public’s passive response to the worsening economic situation in Nigeria.
In an interview with ABN TV, the former Rivers State governor criticized Nigerians for not being more outspoken in their dissatisfaction with the growing economic hardship, especially with the rising costs of essential goods and services.
Expressing his disappointment, Amaechi stated, “I’m angry with the citizens. I have said it several times. You can see a group of people stealing your money, impoverishing you, and yet, you cannot buy fuel or afford basic necessities.” He pointed out the hardships faced by many Nigerians, emphasizing that despite the worsening situation, there is no widespread outrage or significant pushback from the public.
Turning his attention to Edo State, Amaechi questioned the ongoing political campaigns, given the economic struggles the people are enduring. He remarked, “Look at what happened in Edo State. Should any politician be campaigning in Edo?” He expressed disbelief at the fact that politicians continue to campaign while the population faces such severe economic challenges. According to him, the citizens should be taking a more forceful stance against the political class.
Amaechi suggested that Nigerians should channel their frustration into action by protesting, not through violence, but by boycotting elections and refusing to participate in the political process until their needs are prioritized. He emphasized, “The people should be angry. There should be protests. Not even protests against anybody in particular, but against the politicians, with a message saying ‘we won’t vote’. There should be no election in our state.”
He argued that this form of protest would send a strong message to the political class, indicating that the citizens would no longer tolerate being neglected or impoverished. He further added, “That is what people should be saying. The rate of hunger now… if people like us cannot afford diesel, you can imagine what is happening to those who do not have children like us.”
In a sharp critique of the country’s deteriorating economic conditions, Amaechi sarcastically remarked, “Somebody said what this government has achieved is that it has made Nigerians strong, in the sense that Nigerians now trek.” He added, with a hint of irony, “And you know, walking helps the heart.”
Despite his frustration and biting comments about the current economic situation, Amaechi refrained from making any direct political declarations. He concluded by stating, “I am not interested in politics at the moment. I will discuss politics at the right time.”
