Former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, has attributed Nigeria’s current political challenges to the weakness of opposition parties, insisting that President Bola Tinubu should not be regarded as the country’s primary problem.
Amaechi spoke on Thursday in Abuja during a joint media briefing organised by opposition leaders and tagged “Urgent Call to Save Nigeria’s Democracy.”
The former Rivers State governor told journalists that the inability of opposition parties to present a strong and united front had limited political progress, stressing that national change would only happen when the opposition becomes more purposeful and coordinated.
According to him, the opposition must accept responsibility for its shortcomings, noting that effective governance alternatives can only emerge when political rivals are prepared to challenge those in power convincingly.
He explained that opposition parties must deliberately distinguish themselves from the ruling administration in policies and actions if they intend to win public confidence and support.
Amaechi also reflected on his tenure in government under former President Muhammadu Buhari, alleging that proposed electoral reforms were stalled after certain ministers reportedly discouraged Buhari from approving the legislation over fears of possible foreign interference in Nigeria’s electoral system.
He noted that individuals who once resisted electoral reforms were now advocating for similar changes, describing the situation as ironic.
The former minister further argued that Tinubu’s political confidence is reinforced by the lack of a formidable opposition, adding that critics have yet to demonstrate the capacity to hold the government accountable effectively.
He concluded that genuine political change would only occur when opposition parties show readiness to act decisively, adding that representatives of several opposition political parties attended the press conference.
