In a sharp critique ahead of the 2027 presidential election, former Minister of Transport, Rotimi Amaechi, has called on the current Tinubu-led administration to demonstrate any concrete achievements beyond what he describes as "stealing money." Amaechi, who has signaled his interest in running for president, made these remarks in a recent interview with journalists, accusing the government of being in a state of panic and attempting to distract Nigerians.
Amaechi Accuses Government of Fear and Panic
Amaechi asserted that the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led government is now operating in "panic mode," running helter-skelter to divert public attention. He challenged the administration's popularity, stating, "I thought the President said they were popular. What they are doing is panic measures. They are scared. If you are not scared, let's meet on the field. Let the people choose who they want to choose." He further accused the government of trying to impose politicians on the populace rather than allowing democratic choice.
Demand for Tangible Proof of Governance
The former minister emphasized the need for accountability, urging voters to question the APC's record. "If you want to vote for APC, the question you ask yourself is what have they done?" he said. He specifically mentioned the Lagos-Calabar coastal road project, questioning its progress and visibility. In contrast, Amaechi highlighted his own accomplishments during his tenure under former President Muhammadu Buhari, listing several infrastructure projects that he claims are still in use or under development.
Listing Past Achievements Under Buhari
Amaechi provided a detailed account of projects he oversaw as Transport Minister, including:
- The Itakpe-Warri train service, which he says is operational.
- The Lagos-Ibadan railway, currently being utilized by passengers.
- The Kano-Kaduna railway, which was under construction before the end of the Buhari administration.
- The Kaduna-Abuja railway, another key transport link.
- The Lekki deep sea port, a major maritime infrastructure project.
He challenged the Tinubu government to present a single comparable achievement, either in the northern or southern regions of Nigeria, beyond allegations of financial misconduct. "Let this government show one thing they have done, either in the north or in the south, apart from stealing money," Amaechi concluded, reinforcing his call for transparency and performance-based governance.
