Former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, has criticized the current administration led by President Bola Tinubu, asserting that former President Muhammadu Buhari delivered better governance in crucial areas like security, economic direction, and institutional independence.
Speaking on Channels TV’s Politics Today, Amaechi said that although Buhari didn’t achieve all his goals, he was “better than the current government by all standards.”
Buhari vs Tinubu: Security, INEC Independence, and Economic Policy
Amaechi pointed to Buhari’s stronger focus on national security and a more independent electoral commission (INEC) as examples of superior governance. He accused Tinubu’s administration of interfering in party registration and weakening democratic institutions.
“Now they can’t even register a party because government officials are telling them not to,” he claimed.
On economic matters, the ex-minister slammed the Tinubu government for worsening poverty through poor economic policies.
“The current government has completely buried the economy. Where is the money from subsidy removal and naira floatation going?”
He argued that the country now only has two classes, the elite and the poor, with the middle class “completely wiped out.”
“Not About Appointments”: Amaechi Denies Political Bitterness
Responding to suggestions that his criticism stems from being sidelined politically, Amaechi made it clear:
“I’m not in opposition because I didn’t get an appointment. I don’t drive a Rolls-Royce. I never stole anything in politics.”
He added that his track record is clean and challenged anyone to bring proof of wrongdoing during his time in office.
2027 Elections: Amaechi Backs Coalition, Open to One-Term Presidency
As Nigeria looks ahead to the 2027 elections, Amaechi confirmed his role in an emerging opposition coalition, praising the African Democratic Congress (ADC) for its role in pushing for political reform.
“The coalition’s goal is beyond elections. If I become President and it takes just one term to fix Nigeria, I’ll accept that.”
He also pledged transparency, promising to publicly release his age, health, and educational records in the coming weeks.
A Call for Political Overhaul
Amaechi concluded with a strong message about Nigeria’s political future:
“We need to remove politicians, including myself, if necessary, and return power to the people.”
