Former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, has refuted claims that his criticism of President Bola Tinubu stems from being overlooked for a government position.
Amaechi, who recently aligned with the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to challenge the current administration, made the remarks during an appearance on Channels TV’s Politics Today on Thursday.
“I’m not in opposition because Tinubu didn’t appoint me,” he said. “I’m not interested in any appointment. I’ve never stolen in politics. I don’t drive a Rolls-Royce.”
Dismissing corruption allegations, the former Rivers State governor invited anyone with proof of wrongdoing during his time in office to come forward.
“If anyone says I deceived them or was involved in corruption, let them speak. I’m waiting.”
Amaechi also drew comparisons between the Tinubu and Buhari administrations, asserting that former President Muhammadu Buhari performed better by “all standards.”
“Buhari didn’t achieve everything, and he’ll admit that. But he outperformed this government especially in security and institutional independence,” he said.
He cited INEC’s greater autonomy under Buhari and criticized the current administration for stifling political participation.
“Today, people can’t even register political parties. Many have lost their offices due to unpaid rent while waiting.”
On the economy, Amaechi accused the Tinubu government of worsening poverty and failing to implement policies that improve citizens’ lives.
“This government has buried the economy. If your policies don’t put money in people’s pockets, they’ve failed,” he argued.
“You’ve removed subsidies, floated the naira so where’s the money going?”
He concluded by saying Nigeria’s economy now benefits only the elite and the poor, leaving the middle class to vanish.
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