Amaechi’s claims that politicians kill to retain power are reckless, says Defense minister

• The minister characterized Amaechi and his cohorts as an alarming manifestation of the politics of pull him down syndrome.

The minister of state for defence, Bello Matawalle,
has denounced Rotimi Amaechi’s recent remarks, saying they are detrimental to national stability.

Amaechi, a former governor of Rivers state, alleged that President Bola Tinubu and other politicians would only relinquish power to the younger generation through force.

Amaechi stated, “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.”

However, Matawalle countered that Amaechi’s comments were inflammatory and divisive.

Matawalle emphasized that it’s perilous for a former public office holder like Amaechi to make remarks that could incite violence.

“At a time when the government is working tirelessly to consolidate national unity and security, no responsible leader should be fanning the flames of violence and political unrest,” he said.

The minister cautioned Amaechi against spreading a misguided narrative of violence and chaos among young Nigerians, emphasizing the importance of upholding Nigeria’s sovereignty and laws.

Matawalle sternly warned, “Let me make it clear: the security agencies are on high alert. Any individual or group found inciting violence or attempting to destabilize this nation will face the full force of the law.”

Matawalle reiterated that power must be earned through democratic means, not intimidation or violence.

He reaffirmed President Tinubu’s administration commitment to upholding peace, democratic values, and security for all Nigerians.

The minister urged Nigerians to trust President Tinubu’s leadership and disregard Amaechi’s malicious statements, describing him and his associates as “politically irrelevant and out of touch with current realities of national development.”

Matawalle concluded, “Amaechi and others who think they can manipulate our youth into chaos should rethink their actions. This government will not fold its arms and allow any individual to disrupt the peace and stability of Nigeria.”