Former Governor of Rivers State and ex-Minister of Transportation, Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi has criticised the Federal Government’s response to the rising wave of insecurity across the country, describing the Tinubu administration as lacking the political will to decisively confront the menace.
Amaechi, a leading figure in the African Democratic Congress (ADC), said the recent escalation of terrorist attacks, kidnappings and killings in several states shows that the government has failed to protect its citizens, thereby emboldening criminal elements and weakening public trust.
Citing a series of violent incidents that occurred within a week, including attacks on communities in Plateau State, the kidnapping of secondary schoolgirls in Kebbi, an ambush on soldiers in Borno which led to the abduction and killing of Brigadier General M. Uba, an attack on a church in Kwara, and the kidnapping of Rev. Fr. Bobbo Paschal in Kaduna, Amaechi said the pattern underscored the urgent need for stronger action.
“The government in power has no political will to curb the incessant killings and terrorist attacks plaguing our country today,” he stated. “The surge in terrorist attacks and mass kidnappings is challenging our national security, and the Federal Government must sharpen its response, strengthen military intelligence and tactical operations, and live up to expectations.”
He urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to focus on his primary responsibility of ensuring the safety of lives and property, insisting that issuing routine statements of condemnation while Nigerians are under attack is insufficient.
“To Mr President: Prioritising a summit or jetting out for whatever reason when Nigerians are dying can never be the trait of a good leader. It is time to probe wrong decisions, strategise, and make tough calls. The situation demands decisive leadership, strong intelligence coordination, and accountability,” Amaechi said.
Offering his support, the former governor recalled his administration’s security reforms in Rivers State and expressed readiness to assist the Federal Government if called upon.
“We did it in Rivers State; it can be done in the country. We are prepared to help if you request help,” he added.
