- Amaechi had 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.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has shared a revealing story about Nigeria’s political rallies.
He was responding to Rotimi Amaechi’s comments at a national conference in Abuja, organized by the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy and Development, which focused on strengthening democracy in Nigeria.
Amaechi discussed the transactional nature of some rallies, recounting a specific experience.
He shared a story about an All Progressives Congress (APC) demonstration at Eagles Square in Abuja, where women were paid to attend but wore ‘Jonathan for President’ attire.
The rally aimed to support Muhammadu Buhari’s presidential bid in 2015. Former President Goodluck Jonathan was the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) candidate at the time.
Amaechi recalled, “An example is when we are pursuing…, APC was registered, and I was scared they might rig us out.
Amaechi continued, “So I got the party to agree that we will carry out a demonstration. We assembled at Eagle Square.
“We released some money to bring women. I walked in early and saw the women gathered, wearing ‘Jonathan for President’ attire.”
Abubakar responded to Amaechi’s comments, offering insights into crowd mobilization and attendee motivations.
He highlighted the underlying dynamics shaping public gatherings and influencing crowd behavior.
Abubakar shared, “Let me intervene… when Odili was governor of Rivers, we held a rally.
“The stadium was filled, but before we finished, everyone left. I asked what happened, and he said they were paid for only two hours.”
Peter Odili served as governor of Rivers state from May 29, 1999, to May 29, 2007.
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