Nigeria – APC Condemns Amaechi for Urging Protests Against Fuel Hike

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has strongly criticized former Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi, for his recent call urging Nigerian youths to protest against the fuel price hike.

The APC accused Amaechi of attempting to incite unrest and destabilize President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

In a statement issued on Friday by the APC’s National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, the party condemned Amaechi’s remarks as “irresponsible and unpatriotic.” The statement, titled ‘Rotimi Amaechi, Inciting Anarchy is Irresponsible and Unpatriotic, highlighted the party’s disapproval of the former minister’s comments.

Amaechi, who also served as Minister of Transportation, had criticized Nigerian youths in a recent interview for not protesting the rising cost of living and economic hardship in the country.

Morka responded by calling Amaechi’s statement hypocritical, especially given his long tenure in high-ranking political positions.

“Amaechi’s comments are insensitive, god-awful, and unpatriotic,” Morka stated.

“As a two-term Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, a two-term governor, and a two-term Minister of Transport, his remarks are unbecoming of someone who has benefitted from public office for so long,” he said.

Morka also questioned Amaechi’s credibility, accusing him of being part of the systemic issues he now criticizes.

“If those in power ‘steal money,’ as Amaechi alleged, how is it that he can’t afford to ‘buy diesel’ after 24 years in power? His outburst reflects the frustration of political figures like Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and Rabiu Kwankwaso, who are bitter about not being in power today,” Morka added.

The APC urged Nigerians to reject Amaechi’s call for protests, emphasising the need for patience and support for President Tinubu’s efforts to address the country’s economic challenges.

“Amaechi’s attempt to stoke violence is dangerous and provocative,” Morka warned.