In a scathing critique of Nigerian politicians, former Governor of River State, Chibuike Amaechi, has lambasted the political class for their heavy reliance on ethnicity to secure political victories. Speaking at the 2023 TheNiche Annual Lecture themed “Why We Stride and Slip: Leadership, Nationalism, and the Nigerian Condition,” Amaechi decried the lack of national leaders in the country.
During his address, Amaechi singled out former President Olusegun Obasanjo as the lone figure who came close to embodying nationalism, while dismissing others as mere ethnic leaders. He asserted that the prevalent trend among political elites was to exploit ethnic divisions whenever they faced setbacks in their quest for power and privileges at the national level.
“It is disheartening to witness how our political elites consistently resort to stoking ethnic debates as a means to further their personal agendas,” Amaechi emphasized. “They openly champion the cause of their respective ethnic groups, perpetuating divisions instead of fostering national unity.”
Amaechi further elaborated on the qualities that define a truly exceptional national leader, emphasizing the ability to unite the country under a shared vision and purpose.
“Truly remarkable national leadership entails the capacity to rally all citizens around our common national identity, transcending individual limitations,” Amaechi stated. “It requires guiding the nation towards unprecedented heights of success, pride, collective aspirations, and prosperity—a place we have yet to reach.”
These scathing remarks by Amaechi shed light on a recurring problem in Nigerian politics, where ethnic affiliations often take precedence over national interests. The call for true national leaders, capable of unifying the country and pursuing a collective vision, resonates strongly in a nation striving for lasting unity.
