Rotimi Amaechi, former minister of transportation, says President Bola Tinubu and other members of the political class would not cede power to the younger generation without a fight.
Amaechi added that politicians often resort to extreme measures to win elections.
The former governor of Rivers spoke in Abuja at a national conference on strengthening democracy in Nigeria, organised by the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy and Development.
Amaechi harped on the need for political vigilance, warning that power must be fought for, while urging Nigerians to always safeguard their votes if they intend to achieve a semblance of credible leadership.
“None of you here seated can defend the votes. If you have complained, complain, Nigerians have been clapping for you,” he said.
“The only way Ibrahim Shekarau became governor was because people lined up.
“It happened in Ghana before the election of the last president. Two days, a lot of us were called to intervene. But why did they do that? The people were ready to die.
“You are talking and abusing everybody. Nobody has power and will give it to you — not even me. If you want a pastor as president, go and get one.
“The politician is there in Nigeria to steal, maim, and kill to remain in power. If you think Tinubu will give it to you, you are wasting your time.”
Amaechi recounted his experience in the days leading to the 2015 presidential election — when a newly formed All Progressives Congress (APC) defeated the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
He attributed APC’s success to the determination and preparedness of leaders of the party to go the extra mile.
The ex-minister noted that former President Goodluck Jonathan conceded defeat only after realising that the APC was fully prepared to defend its mandate.
He asked citizens to adopt similar measures in future elections.
In October 2024, Amaechi said he was disappointed in Nigerians for their laid-back disposition to the prevailing economic hardship.
“The people should be angry. There should be protests. Not even protests against anybody but against the politicians that ‘we won’t vote’,” he had said.
The ruling APC had clapped back at Amaechi, saying he is one of those who destroyed Nigeria.
Amaechi was one of the 14 hopefuls for the presidential ticket of the APC before the 2023 general election.
He polled second in the primary election with 316 votes, behind eventual winner Tinubu, who secured 1, 271 votes.
