Cynthia Ezegwu
Former Minister of Transportation, H.E Rotimi Amaechi, used his keynote address at the First Daily Annual Public Lecture on Monday to spotlight the urgent need for electoral reform in Nigeria, warning that the nation’s political elites are more focused on power than the welfare of citizens.
Speaking to a packed auditorium, Amaechi recounted pivotal moments from Nigeria’s recent political history, including his role in advocating for election integrity. “By 2023, I was determined, very determined. They said that is the only legacy I want to leave for Nigeria,” he said, reflecting on his push for legislative reforms.
Amaechi criticized the political class for prioritizing personal ambition over national interest. “While the elites are busy discussing how to get to power, what is happening? The voters, the citizens, are helping the elites to achieve that objective,” he stated, urging politicians to focus on policies that truly serve Nigerians.
He also touched on past electoral controversies, highlighting the importance of mobilizing citizens to demand fair elections. “If they rigged us out, war. If you rig us out, you rig problem,” he said, recalling moments of tension during previous elections. He credited public awareness campaigns and grassroots mobilization with averting electoral violence in several states, emphasizing the power of an informed electorate.
READ ALSO: Incumbent Govts Cannot Deliver True Electoral Reforms — Amaechi
Amaechi did not shy away from confronting current political leadership, arguing that genuine reform requires commitment beyond rhetoric. “Here, beside me, I am, where we are now, shouting electoral reform, electoral reform. So you see this crowd? If tomorrow you wake up and Tinipupu is no longer the president, and you become part of government, Tinipupu will be here now shouting electoral reform,” he warned.
The former minister also noted the shortcomings in political qualifications, stressing the need for competent leadership across the country. “Get the best material that can govern the country. The problem is we have no qualification for any politician,” he said.
The lecture concluded with Amaechi calling on both citizens and politicians to actively engage in strengthening Nigeria’s democracy, warning that the nation cannot rely solely on international intervention to safeguard its electoral process.