Amaechi: I’ve stopped commenting on national issues — nothing bothers Nigerians

Rotimi Amaechi, former minister of transportation, has explained why he no longer speaks on national issues.

Since he resigned as minister in May 2022 to contest the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential primary election, Amaechi has largely abstained from commenting on political and governance-related matters.

Speaking during a lecture organised by The Niche on Thursday, the former minister said Nigerians “are not bothered about anything”.

Amaechi said he had declined several requests to speak on national issues since he left office.

He said situations that elicit citizens’ reactions in other countries have little impact in Nigeria.

“Why did I decline? Two reasons. My publicist says don’t speak. And I chose to obey my publicist. He is very angry that I’m speaking today,” he said.

“What is new to say? Nigerians don’t react to anything. Has any politician told you he is not a thief?

“Which politician told you he went to university, which politician told you she served in NYSC, and which politician told you he has his certificate? Nigerians know and still vote for them. So what is your problem?

“Nigerians choose who to believe and who not to believe. Nigerians choose who to vote for and who not to vote for. If you come to a Nigerian man’s house and kill the mother, the father will continue his life.

“Nothing bothers you. Why do I waste my time? I chose not to speak again because Nigerians will do absolutely nothing.”

The former Rivers state governor said he would not comment on the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari because he was a “participant”.

“I will also say nothing about Tinubu’s government because you know the problem. Instead of Nigerians to find solution to their problems, they are committing suicide,” he said.