In a recent public appearance, former Nigerian Minister of Transport, Rotimi Amaechi, addressed the accusations made against him in a book by the former Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority, Hadiza Usman. Amaechi, who served during the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari, used the platform to counter Usman’s claims of dishonesty.
The event, held as TheNiche annual lecture in Lagos, featured Amaechi as the guest speaker. The lecturer’s theme was “Why We Stride and Slip: Leadership, Nationalism, and the Nigerian Condition,” and it took place at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs on Victoria Island. The lecture was chaired by Dr. Uma Eleazu, a former director of the National Policy Development Centre.
Amaechi, speaking publicly for the first time after an unsuccessful presidential bid, criticized Usman’s book, titled ‘Stepping on Toes: My Odyssey at the Nigerian Ports Authority,’ stating that it contained numerous falsehoods about his actions during his tenure as Minister of Transport.
Specifically, Amaechi denied Usman’s claim that he played a role in her removal as the Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority. He refuted her statements, pointing out that she had been found guilty of all ten counts brought against her, contrary to her assertions in the book. Amaechi even produced a memo to the President, showing that the President had endorsed Usman’s removal from her position.
Amaechi revealed further details, highlighting instances where Usman had made decisions outside her authority, such as approving a multi-billion Naira contract with an approval limit of just N2.5 million. He also emphasized that the contract was overpriced by N58 million. He questioned why such documents were not public and why certain individuals received waivers that they were not entitled to, resulting in a loss of revenue to the Nigerian economy.
The former Minister expressed concern about the docile nature of Nigerian citizens and their apparent reluctance to demand good governance. He pointed out that many politicians make false claims, yet they continue to garner support and get elected.
Despite these challenges, Amaechi stated that he chose not to speak out earlier because he believed there was little new to say, and Nigerians often do not react to such issues. He also highlighted the tendency for Nigerians to accept and propagate false narratives without evidence.
The event also featured a panel discussion involving several prominent figures, including Funke Treasure, Yakubu Mohammed, Valentine Ozigbo, Chidi Amuta, and Prof. Anthony Kila. During the event, Amaechi and Dr. Uma Eleazu were inducted into TheNiche Hall of Fame.
In conclusion, Amaechi’s response to Usman’s accusations sheds light on the challenges of accountability and transparency in Nigerian politics. While he acknowledges the difficulty of influencing public opinion and change, he encourages a more vigilant and informed citizenry.
Source:[Punch]
