…as group expresses concern that Amaechi’s comment could reignite violence and bloodshed.
The iNews Times reports that the Former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, has come under fire for his recent remarks against President Bola Tinubu, suggesting that Nigerians might need to “take their fate into their own hands” to prevent Tinubu’s potential return to power in 2027.
Amaechi’s comments have sparked controversy, with the Grassroots Mobilisation Initiative (GMI) condemning his words as “reckless, inflammatory, and a veiled call to violence”.
The group’s National Coordinator, Samaila Musa, expressed concern that Amaechi’s rhetoric could reignite violence and bloodshed, drawing parallels to historical precedents in countries like Bangladesh, Peru, or Chile.
Musa emphasized that meaningful change can only be achieved through peaceful means and civic engagement, urging Amaechi to reconsider his stance and engage in constructive dialogue.
“Amaechi’s rhetoric is alarming and reminiscent of dangerous historical precedents that have led to violence and bloodshed.
By suggesting that citizens should engage in direct confrontation with the elite, he is essentially advocating for chaos and disorder,” Musa stated.
Musa also criticized Amaechi for disregarding Nigeria’s unique socio-political context and ignoring the devastating consequences of violence.
He further rebuked the former minister’s notion that revolutions cannot occur without bloodshed, calling it “misguided” and a “direct invitation to violence”.
The coordinator emphasized the importance of responsible leadership, particularly for those who have held positions of power in government. “As a former minister, he had the opportunity to contribute to nation-building and social cohesion, yet he now chooses to incite division and discord,” Musa added.
The GMI has called on the federal government to take immediate action against Amaechi, citing the potential for his words to spark unrest. “His incitement to violence cannot be overlooked, and we believe that his arrest is necessary to prevent potential unrest,” Musa stated.
The group demands that Amaechi retract his statements and recognize the weight of his influence on Nigerian youth.
In response to the controversy, the former minister’s comments have been seen as a call to action for Nigerians to rise up against the ruling class, which he claims has plundered the country’s wealth. However, critics argue that such rhetoric could lead to chaos and undermine national stability.