Former Minister of Transportation and chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, has sharply criticised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, describing his administration as “a total failure” and questioning the president’s capacity to lead Nigeria.
Amaechi made the remarks during an interview on Frontline, a current affairs programme on Eagle 102.5 FM, where he addressed his defection from the All Progressives Congress (APC), ongoing tax reforms, electoral transparency, security agencies, and his interest in the 2027 presidential race.
Explaining his departure from the APC after the 2023 presidential primaries, Amaechi said his decision was driven by principle rather than personal grievance. He stated that he did not support Tinubu’s candidacy because he doubted his governing capacity — a view he said remains unchanged.
According to him, remaining in the party after Tinubu emerged as candidate would have contradicted his convictions, particularly given that he had previously worked closely with the president.
Assessing the current administration, Amaechi was unequivocal.
“It is a total failure. He lacks capacity,” he said.
He further alleged that the government has drifted from democratic ideals and is increasingly intolerant of dissent, accusing security institutions of being used to intimidate opposition figures and critics.
Amaechi devoted a significant portion of the interview to criticising the federal government’s tax reform policies, describing them as harsh and potentially burdensome for ordinary Nigerians.
He questioned official assurances that individuals earning below ₦800,000 annually would be exempt from tax, arguing that calculations based on the new minimum wage suggest many workers would exceed that threshold.
He also referenced provisions of the National Tax Administration Act, claiming they grant broad enforcement powers to tax authorities, including asset seizure and access to bank accounts under certain conditions. He warned that the full economic impact of the reforms may become clearer after future elections.
Security Agencies and Political Tensions
Reacting to the reported invitation of former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai by security agencies, Amaechi alleged increased monitoring and pressure on political actors.
He also made allegations against the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, claiming there were moves aimed at weakening opposition parties ahead of the 2027 elections. He did not provide evidence to support the claims.
Electoral Reforms Debate
On proposals concerning election result transmission, Amaechi criticised resistance to real-time electronic transmission of results, arguing that transparent elections require adequate technological investment and infrastructure.
2027 Presidential Ambition
Amaechi confirmed his intention to seek the ADC presidential ticket in 2027, expressing confidence in his chances while pledging to remain in the party regardless of the outcome.
He cited his experience as former Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, two-term governor of Rivers State, Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, Minister of Transportation, and Director-General of the Buhari Campaign Organisation as qualifications for national leadership.
Responding to questions from callers about his tenure as Minister of Transportation, Amaechi listed projects completed during his time in office, including the Lekki Deep Sea Port, the Lagos-Ibadan railway, the Abuja-Kaduna railway, and the commencement of the Port Harcourt–Maiduguri rail line.
He also stated that revenue remittances from the Nigerian Ports Authority increased significantly during his tenure.
Rivers Politics and ADC’s Position
On the political situation in Rivers State, Amaechi declined to intervene, describing key actors as former subordinates.
Outlining the ADC’s position, he said the party supports responsible governance and anti-corruption, arguing that while some economic reforms may be necessary, public funds must be transparently managed and reinvested for citizens’ benefit.
In his closing remarks, Amaechi urged Nigerians to remain engaged in governance and demand accountability from their leaders.
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