Ousted Nigerian Minister Slammed for Alleged Incitement
In a scathing press statement, the All Progressives Congress (APC) has accused former Minister of Transport, Rotimi Amaechi, of inciting public unrest with his recent comments on Nigeria’s economic situation. According to reports, Amaechi expressed disappointment at the lack of public protests against rising costs of living, stating that he had expected more visible reactions from citizens, particularly the youth.
Amaechi’s remarks were made in an interview with ABN TV, where he lamented the high cost of living, rising fuel prices, and other economic pressures. The APC, however, has denounced his comments, labeling them “irresponsible and unpatriotic.”
In a statement issued by APC National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, the party accused Amaechi of playing a “dangerous game of incitement” and exploiting the economic discomfort of citizens for his own political gain. The statement noted that Amaechi’s rhetoric is hypocritical, given his long-standing involvement in Nigeria’s governance, which has contributed to the nation’s challenges.
The APC also took aim at other opposition figures, including Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, suggesting that their criticisms stem from frustration at being out of power. The party urged Nigerians not to fall prey to the provocations of opposition leaders who seek to manipulate the populace for their own political gain.
The APC reaffirmed its commitment to steering Nigeria through its economic recovery and called on citizens to remain steadfast in supporting the government’s efforts. In a veiled attack on Amaechi, the party noted that “if those in power ‘steal money,’ as Amaechi mischievously alleged, how come he can’t afford ‘to buy diesel’ barely two years after ‘stealing’ for over 24 years in power as Speaker, Governor, and Minister?”
The party also criticized Amaechi for neglecting the crisis in Rivers State, where he once governed, choosing instead to “stoke anarchy on a national scale.” The APC concluded by branding “weaponising protest and exploiting citizen’s economic discomfort for selfish political objectives” as “irresponsible and unpatriotic.”
As Nigeria’s economic recovery continues, the issue of accountability and responsibility will likely remain a pressing concern. With the APC’s sharp rebuke of Amaechi, it is clear that the party will not hesitate to call out individuals deemed to be exploiting the economic situation for political gain. Will this moderate tone send a strong message to other opposition leaders, or will it fall on deaf ears? Only time will tell.
