THE Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has warned the former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, over his recent comment that Nigerian politicians are in power to steal, kill, and retain power.
Amaechi made the remark at a two-day National Conference on Strengthening Democracy in Nigeria held earlier this week, aimed at discussing pathways to good governance and political integrity in Nigeria.
The former Governor of Rivers State further said President Bola Tinubu and other members of the political class would not cede power to the younger generation without a fight.
According to Amaechi, Nigerian voters are easily swayed and influenced by political rhetoric and inducements from public officeholders.
He said, “All we have here is typical of Nigerians. They will be clapping. That’s why politicians get away with anything. They get away with murder because they have a short memory. None of you here can defend the votes.
“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.”
Matawalle, while reacting to the comment in a statement on Thursday issued by the Ministry’s Director of Information and Public Relations, Henshaw Ogubike, described Amaechi’s comments as reckless and inflammatory.
Matawalle told the former governor that power is earned through democracy, not intimidation, violence, or lawlessness as claimed.
He, however, stated that the Tinubu administration is committed to upholding peace, democratic values, and security for all Nigerians.
Matawalle said, “It is both reckless and dangerous for a former public office holder to make such inflammatory remarks.
“At a time when the government is working tirelessly to consolidate national unity and security, no responsible leader should be fanning the flames of violence and political unrest.”
The minister warned Amaechi against misleading young Nigerians, adding that anyone found inciting violence or attempting to destabilise the country will face the full force of the law.
“Let me make it clear: the security agencies are on high alert. Any individual or group found inciting violence or attempting to destabilize this nation will face the full force of the law.
“We will not tolerate any form of subversive rhetoric that seeks to undermine national unity or incite lawlessness. This government will not fold its arms and allow any individual to disrupt the peace and stability of Nigeria,” he warned.