- The ruling APC had clapped back at Amaechi, saying he is one of those who destroyed Nigeria.
- Amaechi was one of the 14 aspirants who sought the presidential ticket of the APC before the 2023 general election — but came third in the race.
The former transportation minister, Rotimi Amaechi, has said that politicians will stop at nothing to win elections.
Amaechi, a former Rivers State governor, spoke at a national conference on strengthening democracy in Nigeria, organised by the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy and Development in Abuja.
He emphasised the need for vigilance, stressing that power must be fought for, and urged Nigerians to protect their votes to ensure credible leadership.
“None of you here seated can defend the votes. If you have complained, complain, Nigerians have been clapping for you,” the former minister said.
“The only way Shekarau became governor was because people lined up.
“It happened in Ghana before the election of the last president, two days, a lot of us were called to intervene, but why did they do that? The people were ready to die.
“You are talking and abusing people. Nobody has power and will give it to you, not even me. If you want a pastor as president, go and get one.l
“The politician is there in Nigeria to steal, maim, and kill to remain in power. If you think Tinubu will give it to you, you are wasting your time.”
Amaechi shared his experience leading the All Progressives Congress (APC) to victory over the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2015 elections, crediting the success to APC leaders’ determination and preparedness to confront opposition.
The ex-minister noted that former President Goodluck Jonathan conceded defeat after recognising the APC’s readiness to defend its mandate.
Amaechi urged citizens to adopt the same resolve in safeguarding democratic processes in future elections.