Former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, has strongly criticised the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, accusing it of failing in its fundamental responsibility to protect the lives and property of Nigerians following the recent bombings in Maiduguri.
In a statement released on Tuesday through his media office, the former governor of Rivers State condemned the Monday night attack, describing the current government as “abysmally incompetent” and lacking the leadership capacity required to ensure the safety of citizens. He argued that the tragic incident reflects deeper systemic issues within the country’s security framework.
Amaechi, who is also a chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), extended his condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in the attack. However, he expressed frustration that Nigerians are repeatedly left to mourn while, in his view, those in power fail to take decisive action to address worsening insecurity across the country.
“This government is killing Nigerians. I repeat, President Tinubu’s government is killing Nigerians, literally destroying lives,” Amaechi said, stressing that the administration has failed in what he described as its most sacred duty — the protection of citizens.
He further characterised the Maiduguri bombing as more than an isolated incident, calling it a clear indication of broader governance failures. According to him, the attack highlights what he sees as a pattern of complacency, incompetence, and indifference by those entrusted with leadership.
“The Monday bombings in Maiduguri are not just a tragedy; they are a damning indictment of a leadership that has grown complacent, incompetent, and indifferent to the suffering and deaths inflicted on Nigerians,” he stated.
Amaechi also criticised the government’s response to recurring security challenges, accusing authorities of issuing empty statements without implementing effective solutions. He lamented that communities across Nigeria continue to live in fear while meaningful action remains lacking.
“While families mourn and communities live in fear, those in power issue hollow statements and make empty promises,” he said. “Now, they don’t even bother to make promises anymore. They simply move on as though nothing has happened.”
He went further to question the priorities of the leadership, suggesting a disconnect between those in authority and the realities faced by ordinary Nigerians. He expressed concern that insecurity has become a daily experience for many citizens, with little assurance of improvement.
“How many more lives must be lost before they admit their failure? How many more communities must be shattered before decisive action is taken?” he asked, warning that the government appears unprepared and unwilling to confront the security crisis with the seriousness it requires.
Amaechi emphasised that Nigerians deserve safety, peace, and dignity, insisting that governance must go beyond rhetoric to tangible action. He argued that leadership demands responsibility and commitment to the welfare of the people, adding that the current situation reflects a failure in that regard.
“Leadership is not about rhetoric; it is about responsibility, action, and making the right decisions for the good of the people. Right now, this government has abandoned that responsibility, and the nation is paying the price,” he said.
The former minister also expressed sympathy for residents of Borno State and families affected by the attack, noting that their lives have been deeply impacted by what he described as the government’s inability to provide adequate protection.
Concluding his remarks, Amaechi stated that “enough is enough,” calling for urgent accountability and stronger leadership. He went as far as urging the President to resign if the administration cannot guarantee the safety and security of Nigerians, reinforcing his position that the protection of citizens must remain the top priority of any government.
