Amaechi Addresses Criticism from Obi Supporters
Rotimi Amaechi, the former Governor of Rivers State, has responded to the wave of criticism directed at him by supporters of Peter Obi, the presidential candidate from the Labor Party in 2023. Speaking at a town hall event in Lagos, organized by the Progressive Movement of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Amaechi noted that he has chosen to refrain from retaliatory comments.
Call for Civil Discourse Among Supporters
The transport minister emphasized the importance of basing political arguments on factual information rather than resorting to personal attacks against rival party leaders. He remarked, “My supporters do not engage in online confrontations, unlike the exchanges occurring between supporters of Atiku and Obi.” According to Amaechi, maintaining a peaceful discourse is essential for unity as the election approaches.
Avoiding Verbal Attacks for Unity
Amaechi explained that his campaign strategy focuses on fostering unity rather than division among the opposition. He understands that inciting conflict could jeopardize their chances against the incumbent. “To achieve victory, we must be mindful of our words and actions, ensuring we keep everyone aligned,” he stated.
Campaign Instructions and Respect for Opponents
To further this goal, Amaechi has instructed his campaign team to refrain from verbal attacks. “We have a clear directive: avoid negative comments about anyone within the ADC,” he affirmed, adding that even criticism of the president should be based on facts rather than emotions.
Amaechi’s Political Journey and Future Plans
Amaechi previously contested in the presidential primaries for the All Progressives Congress (APC), finishing as the runner-up to current President Bola Tinubu. Having officially joined the ADC on March 6, he is now gearing up for a run in the party’s upcoming presidential election in 2027, competing alongside figures such as Obi and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.
Performance Comparison with Other Candidates
During his Lagos event, Amaechi further urged Nigerians to critically compare his record as governor with that of Obi and Atiku. “Evaluate our tenures side by side. If you believe Obi was a better governor, support him. Atiku may not have been a governor, but let’s also assess the impact of his vice presidency,” he stated.
Edging for Support through Practical Experience
Amaechi highlighted his extensive contributions to public service, particularly his hands-on involvement in infrastructure projects. “When others rest, I am on-site, ensuring timely project completion. I don’t just sit behind a desk; I actively engage in the work,” he explained, illustrating his commitment to the responsibilities of governance.
Encouraging Unity Against Current Leadership
He called upon supporters of both Obi and Atiku to prioritize collaboration over discord. “Creating friction among ourselves makes it harder to present a united front against Tinubu. Our collective aim should be to vote for our respective candidates but emerge united afterward,” Amaechi advised. He cautioned that the hostility among supporters could hinder future cooperation within the political landscape.
