Rotimi Amaechi faces political backlash over economic hardship claims

Political tensions in Nigeria have escalated following controversial remarks by Rotimi Amaechi, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) vice-presidential candidate. Amaechi claimed that President Bola Tinubu’s economic policies made it difficult for him to afford medication for his late mother, which he suggested contributed to her death.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) responded by mocking Amaechi, describing him as a “loafer” who has become destitute after decades in public office. The ruling party questioned his fitness for the vice presidency, suggesting he should seek employment in his hometown of Ubima. The ADC Presidential Campaign Council condemned these remarks as “insensitive” and “a display of political cruelty,” arguing that the focus should be on the millions of Nigerians struggling with healthcare and economic hardship.

In Rivers State, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has also targeted Amaechi, challenging him to account for $308 million from the sale of state power plants during his governorship and questioning his political achievements. Meanwhile, the ADC has raised alarms regarding potential political violence, citing alleged threats of firearm deployment by an APC state chairman and attacks on party supporters in Kogi State.