Rotimi Amaechi Clarifies Decision to Attend National Assembly Protest with His Son
Former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, has provided a detailed explanation for his participation in the "Occupy the National Assembly" protest in Abuja, which notably included the presence of his son. Speaking to journalists on Tuesday, February 10, Amaechi addressed the curiosity surrounding his choice to bring along his son, who is a qualified medical doctor.
Safety Precautions and Political Solidarity
Amaechi revealed that his son's attendance served as a precautionary safety measure, intended to provide immediate medical assistance in the event that the demonstration escalated into violence and resulted in injuries among protesters. Beyond this practical consideration, the former Rivers State governor emphasized that his involvement was rooted in a core political principle.
He articulated a firm belief that elected leaders and political figures should not remain aloof from grassroots movements. Instead, he argued, they have a responsibility to be physically present and stand in solidarity with citizens during pivotal moments of national discourse and demand.
Call to Action Against Electoral Act Stance
Utilizing the platform, Amaechi issued a direct appeal to the Nigerian populace and opposition political groups. He urged them to mobilize and actively oppose the Senate's current position regarding the proposed amendments to the Electoral Act. He specifically called upon parties such as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to join the protests.
"I believe that the opposition parties should come out—PDP, ADC, everybody should be out—to protest against the attempt of one party," Amaechi stated. He accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of resisting the provision for electronic transmission of election results due to an underlying fear of potential electoral defeat.
Critique of APC and Defense of Protest Legitimacy
Addressing potential criticisms that opposition groups might hijack the protest, Amaechi posed a counter-question: "What is the APC doing? Are they not hijacking? What are they afraid of?" He further contrasted the current political climate with the past, noting, "Tinubu is not Jonathan. The only way a good politician will know he has done well is by the people."
Amaechi asserted that protests led by opposition parties and civil society organizations would persist, regardless of whether Senate President Godswill Akpabio or President Bola Tinubu chooses to respond to their demands.
Comparative Analysis of Economic and Governance Conditions
The former minister expanded his critique to encompass broader governance issues. He offered a stark comparison between the current economic situation under President Tinubu and the period during the Muhammadu Buhari administration, in which he served as a minister.
"It is worse now than it was then," Amaechi claimed. "In Buhari’s time, at least, even though we were planning to remove the subsidy, we had better plans for citizens." He went further to allege that there has been a noticeable increase in corruption under the present Tinubu-led government.
Outlook on the 2027 Presidential Election
When questioned about President Bola Tinubu's prospects for winning the 2027 presidential election, Amaechi offered a cautious yet pointed response: "Let’s wait and see." He added that it would be impossible for the incumbent to secure victory, firmly stating, "The will of the people must prevail."
The "Occupy the National Assembly" protest emerges amidst ongoing and heated debates concerning the amendment of the Electoral Act ahead of the 2027 general elections. A central point of contention remains whether the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) should be legally mandated to transmit election results electronically in real-time directly from polling units across the nation.
