Former Rivers State governor, Rotimi Amaechi, has stated that no politician will willingly concede defeat, not even President Bola Tinubu he said, emphasising that politicians often deploy extreme measures to secure electoral victories. Amaechi made the remarks today in Abuja at during a national conference on strengthening democracy in Nigeria, organized by the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy, and Development.
According to the former Minister of Transport, Nigerian politicians are determined to maintain power by any means possible, not minding if citizens are demanding for change, power are not freely relinquished by politicians, citing past events in Nigeria and Ghana as examples.
While taunting the gathering, Amechi said, “None of you here can defend the votes,” If you have complained, complain, Nigerians have been clapping for you. The only way Ibrahim Shekarau became governor was because people lined up.”
He continued, “It happened in Ghana before the election of the last president. Two days, many of us were called to intervene. Why? Because the people were ready to die.”
Amaechi further stated, “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.
“The politician in Nigeria is there to steal, maim, and kill to remain in power.
He added “If you think Tinubu will give it to you, you are wasting your time,” stressing the need for political vigilance.
Recalling his 2015 experience, Amaechi recounted that during the 2015 presidential election. He said APC’s success was due to leaders of the party’s determination to go the extra mile.
According to Amaechi, President Goodluck Jonathan conceded defeat because APC was prepared to defend its mandate.
Meanwhile, he urged Nigerians to adopt similar measures in elections if what they actually want is change.
