Kehinde Fajobi
The All Progressives Congress (APC) has condemned former Minister of Transport, Rotimi Amaechi, over remarks that the party claims incited unrest amid Nigeria’s current economic challenges.
In an interview with ABN TV, Amaechi expressed disappointment at the public’s response to rising fuel prices, high living costs, and other economic pressures. He said he expected Nigerians, especially the youth, to be more vocal and visible in their reactions.
However, the APC responded strongly, calling Amaechi’s comments “irresponsible and unpatriotic.” APC National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, issued a statement on Friday titled, “Rotimi Amaechi, Inciting Anarchy Is Irresponsible And Unpatriotic,” where he criticised Amaechi for attempting to stoke public unrest.
“Amaechi’s comments are inflammatory and seek to exploit the economic discomforts that are a direct result of necessary reforms being implemented by the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” the statement read.
Morka accused Amaechi of hypocrisy, noting that as someone who has held prominent government roles for over two decades, he bears some responsibility for the country’s current state.
The statement further argued that Nigeria’s ongoing economic reforms are beginning to show positive results, urging citizens to remain patient as the government continues its recovery efforts.
The APC also took aim at opposition figures like Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, accusing them of being frustrated due to their loss of political power. The statement noted, “The only real anger that Amaechi and his fellow tribesmen of naysayers of the likes of Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, must feel is that they are not in the saddle of government today. But that was a decision made by Nigeria’s ultimate political authority—the electorate.”
Addressing Amaechi’s allegations of corruption, Morka added, “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 APC concluded by urging Nigerians to ignore what it called the “call to anarchy” from Amaechi and his political allies, urging the public to continue supporting President Tinubu’s administration.
The statement also criticised Amaechi for neglecting the political crisis in Rivers State, where tensions between Governor Sim Fubara and former Governor Nyesom Wike have escalated. The party said, “One would expect Amaechi to keep busy trying to solve the crippling crisis in Rivers State that he once governed. Instead, he has chosen to stoke anarchy on a national scale.”
The APC reiterated its commitment to leading Nigeria through economic recovery, calling on citizens to remain steadfast in their support for the government’s efforts.