Former Minister of Transportation, Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, has issued one of the most blistering critiques yet of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s handling of Nigeria’s worsening insecurity, saying the government’s slow and reactive approach has emboldened terrorists and shaken public confidence.
Amaechi’s remarks came after a week drenched in bloodshed and fear:
– Fresh killings in Plateau State,
– The abduction of secondary schoolgirls in Kebbi,
– The deadly ambush on soldiers in Borno that left Brigadier General Musa Uba killed and abducted,
– A church attack in Kwara,
– And the kidnapping of Rev. Fr. Bobbo Paschal in Kaduna.
All of these incidents happened within just seven days — a grim reminder of how fragile national security has become.
Amaechi did not mince words.
“The Federal Government needs to sharpen its response to terrorist activities, strengthen military intelligence, and ensure the protection of lives and property,” he declared. “Enough of looking the other way or issuing statements of condemnation. Prioritizing summits or travel when Nigerians are dying can never define good leadership.”
In a direct challenge to the presidency, he said it was time to “probe wrong decisions, strategize, and make tough calls.”
He also referenced his time as Rivers State Governor, implying that Tinubu’s government could learn from the strategies that helped tame insecurity in the oil-rich state.
“We did it in Rivers State; it can be done across the country. We are prepared to help if you request help,” he said.
Amaechi’s comments reflect a growing wave of frustration from citizens who feel increasingly helpless as banditry, terrorism, kidnappings, and communal attacks spread across multiple regions. His intervention adds pressure on the Tinubu administration, which is already battling criticism over economic hardship and inflation.
As insecurity continues its deadly march, one thing is clear: the call for decisive, coordinated, and intelligence-driven action is no longer just a political talking point — it is a national emergency.