Former Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi, has called on Nigerians to actively defend their votes and ensure credible leadership in the 2027 elections, emphasizing that power is never freely given.
Speaking during a panel discussion in Abuja on Monday, January 27, Amaechi warned against political complacency, stressing that Nigerians must be prepared to fight for the leadership they desire.
Using the election of Malam Ibrahim Shekarau as governor of Kano State as an example, Amaechi highlighted how mass mobilization and public resistance played a decisive role in securing victory.
“The only way Shekarau became governor of Kano State was because people stood their ground. When they asked, ‘How many people are there?’ the response was, ‘Over 500,000.’ The authorities knew they couldn’t suppress such a crowd, so they had no choice but to announce Shekarau as the winner,” he recalled.
He also pointed to Ghana’s political history, noting that popular resistance influenced the election of the country’s last president.
Amaechi dismissed the idea that political power is willingly surrendered, urging Nigerians to take decisive action rather than merely complaining about the system.
“You are here talking and insulting politicians. Nobody in power will hand it over to you, not even me. If you want a pastor as president, go and get one,” he said.
He further warned that Nigerian politicians are willing to do anything to stay in power.
“The politician is there to steal, maim, and kill to remain in power. If you think Tinubu will just hand it over, you’re wasting your time,” he added.
Reflecting on his role in leading the All Progressives Congress (APC) to unseat the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in 2015, Amaechi credited the party’s success to its firm resolve and readiness to resist any attempts to undermine their victory.
According to him, former President Goodluck Jonathan only conceded defeat when it became clear that the APC was fully prepared for any challenge.
“Power is never given; it must be fought for. If you’re not ready to fight, don’t expect change,” he concluded.
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