The Jackson Omenazu-led faction of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Igbo socio-cultural organisation, has condemned the remarks made by Rotimi Amaechi, former minister of transport, against the President Bola Tinubu administration.
At a recent National Conference on Strengthening Democracy in Nigeria
the former Rivers State governor was reported to have said Nigerian politicians are in power to steal, kill, and retain power and that anyone who thinks President Bola Tinubu will give power to him, is wasting his time.
“The politician is there in Nigeria to steal, to maim, to kill, and to remain in power. If you think Tinubu will give it to you, you are wasting your time. When we speak, we forget history, “Amaechi was quoted to have said.
However, in a statement on Saturday the Deputy President General of Ohanaeze, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, said Amaechi’s comments, not only diminishes the dignity of political discourse, but poses a dire threat to the very fabric of the society.
He said the former minister’s outbursts “contravenes the principles of civility, democracy, and peace that we hold dear.”
Isiguzoro said such insidious rhetoric serves to incite unrest and mobilize the youth towards violent actions that could plunge the nation into chaos.
According to the statement, Amaechi’s utterances are an affront to the intelligence, integrity, and sensibilities of all Nigerians and threatens to incite an uncontrollable wave of violence that could engulf country.
The statement said, “In light of this egregious misconduct, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, while often inclined to overlook baseless declarations, understands that the gravity of Amaechi’s statements warrants a definitive and public denunciation, especially as he identifies as an Igbo man from the Ikwerre-speaking area of Rivers State.
“Given his past candidacy against President Tinubu in the 2023 APC primaries—an electoral contest in which he was decisively bested—it is paramount that we as Igbo leaders unequivocally distance ourselves from incendiary and divisive rhetoric that could mistakenly suggest support from Ndigbo for such inflammatory sentiments.
“We condemn in the strongest possible terms the reckless and incendiary comments made by Chibuike Amaechi against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“It is essential to declare firmly that the Ndigbo will never endorse any political conspiracy aimed at undermining the legitimacy of an elected president.
“Furthermore, we unequivocally lend our support to the position articulated by the Minister of State for Defence, H.E. Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawelle.
“We echo his urgent call for Mr. Amaechi to retract his divisive statements and cease from further inciting the populace, lest he face the inevitable repercussions of his actions.
“No individual, regardless of their status or former office, is above the rule of law in our nation.”
Isiguzoro maintained that “it is abundantly clear that the coalition of opposition political elites currently lacks the cohesion and strength required to mount an effective challenge against President Tinubu in 2027.”
The statement said, “In this context, Ohanaeze Ndigbo unequivocally announces its intent to mobilize and galvanize the Igbo population residing in the 19 Northern States to stand firmly alongside Dr. Bello Matawelle.
“Together, we shall ensure that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu not only maintains his office but secures a resounding victory in the forthcoming elections.
“To the opposition politicians who delight in fantasies of seizing power through chaos, let it be known that the Federal Government, through the Ministry of Defence, must remain vigilant against any attempts to incite disorder”.
The group called for robust measures to monitor and thwart any individual or group attempting to weaponize discontent and mobilize violence among the youth.
“Those found guilty of such treasonous actions must face severe penalties, irrespective of their political connections or influence.”
The statement declared
Ohanaeze Ndigbo’s “unwavering allegiance to President Bola Tinubu.
“We clearly state that there shall be no support from the Igbo for any coalition of opposition leaders plotting against the sitting president.
“Our resolve is steadfast, as we remain committed to fostering peace, stability, and fruitful governance in Nigeria.
“Let it be said that the aspirations of the Igbo people align with a future predicated upon legitimate leadership, respect for democratic processes, and a shared vision for a prosperous Nigeria,” Isiguzoro said.
