Amaechi and Shehu Sani Spar Over Tinubu’s Leadership

Table of Contents

1. Heated Exchange in Abuja
2. Amaechi's Remarks
3. Sani's Response
4. Summit Overview
5. Notable Participants

A heated debate occurred in Abuja between former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, and former Kaduna Central Senator, Shehu Sani, during the National Electoral Reforms Summit 2025, as they clashed over the performance of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

In his remarks at the summit, organized by the Movement for Electoral Reform, Amaechi criticized the current administration, calling it “insensitive to the needs of Nigerians.”

He expressed concern over the escalating hardship across the nation, accusing the government of failing to provide good governance and protect citizens from economic distress.

“People are suffering, yet there are no ASUU, no NLC, no NANS to pressure the government. Nigerians are silent when they should be demanding accountability,” Amaechi stated.

He further cautioned that Tinubu’s administration is “vulnerable” to defeat through democratic processes.

However, his remarks were met with a swift rebuttal from Senator Sani, who accused Amaechi of hypocrisy and reminded him of his own record in public office.

“You were part of the governance structure from the state to the national level for many years, with little or no significant achievements,” Sani retorted. “You criticize Nigerians for not protesting, yet you never led any protests while you were in power.”

The former lawmaker contended that many of the issues currently attributed to Tinubu’s government were caused by past leaders, including those who served under both the PDP and APC administrations since 1999.

“All that he points out as failures were problems created by leaders like him. It is ironic that after two years out of power, he has suddenly taken on the role of a critic,” Sani added.

The National Electoral Reforms Summit 2025, held in Abuja, gathered politicians, civil society leaders, and electoral experts to discuss ways to strengthen Nigeria’s democratic institutions ahead of upcoming elections.

Other prominent participants included Dr. Usman Bugaje, IPAC Chairman Peter Ameh, former SDP presidential candidate Prince Adewole Adebayo, Dr. Yunusa Tanko, Dr. Oby Ezekwesili, and Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe.