Former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, has declared his intention to abolish identity-based politics if elected President of Nigeria. He argued that governance should prioritize citizenship over ethnicity or religion.
Amaechi Advocates Citizenship-First Governance
Amaechi stated that his administration would emphasize national identity, ensuring equal treatment for all Nigerians regardless of their regional or religious backgrounds. He criticized the current political system for fostering divisions along ethnic and religious lines, which he believes undermine national unity.
There will be citizenship first and foremost, citizens of Nigeria, he said, stressing that leadership should not be determined by sectional affiliations.
Challenging the Federal Character System
The former governor also questioned the effectiveness of the federal character principle, suggesting it may contribute to governance inefficiencies. While designed to ensure fairness, he noted that it has sometimes been used to justify structural imbalances.
If it is because the system is unfair, one way to manage the system is to say give shares to areas, Amaechi explained.
Linking Unemployment to Insecurity
Amaechi connected Nigeria's insecurity challenges to high unemployment rates, arguing that improved governance and economic engagement would reduce crime. He emphasized that structured employment opportunities would keep citizens occupied and less likely to engage in criminal activities.
If everybody is employed, you won't have time to rob. You are at work by 6am and close by 6pm; you are too tired to carry a gun, he added.
Call for Performance-Based Leadership
Amaechi urged Nigerians to assess leaders based on their track records rather than identity politics. He insisted that the country must move towards a system where competence and results define leadership selection, moving away from ethnic or religious considerations.
He reiterated his confidence in securing the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential ticket for the 2027 general elections, questioning the long-term electoral strength of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar. Amaechi argued that repeated success in party primaries has not translated into presidential victory for Atiku, suggesting the pattern may continue.
