Former Rivers State governor, Rotimi Amaechi, has asserted that Nigeria’s political landscape would be vastly different if his generation of governors were still in office.
Speaking at the launch of Sule Lamido’s autobiography Being True to Myself, Amaechi emphasized the confrontational and radical leadership style that once characterized the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF). He remarked that he and Lamido would have actively challenged the current administration under President Bola Tinubu, as they once did during their tenures.
Amaechi recounted the political synergy and ideological clashes he experienced with Lamido, describing their relationship as one rooted in mutual respect and driven by a shared vision for change. Although Lamido initially resisted Amaechi’s leadership of the NGF, they worked closely on several bold initiatives. However, differences eventually emerged, especially during the fallout with then-President Goodluck Jonathan, which saw Amaechi join the APC while Lamido supported the SDP.
The former governor also criticized President Tinubu for what he described as authoritarian political maneuvering in Rivers State, accusing him of using federal power to pressure governors and secure political loyalty ahead of future elections. Amaechi vowed to contribute privately to Lamido’s memoir and praised their era for its integrity, courage, and commitment to challenging the status quo.
