The Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, has criticized his Rivers State successor, Governor Nyesom Wike, for saying that the country would be set on fire if President, Muhammadu Buhari doesn’t implement the demands of the South-South people.
Grassroots reported last week when the leaders from South-South leaders demanded the restructuring of the country in line with the principle of true federalism.Wike in an interview had said meeting up with the demands of the region will guarantee peace, security, and stability in the country.
The Governor subsequently said the President will set the country on fire by not implementing these demands.
However, the Former Governor of River State chided his successor for issuing the ‘threat’.
Amaechi said, “That is not something that should come out from the mouth of a Governor. It shouldn’t come out from the mouth of a Governor.”
According to the minister, the South-South people had the opportunity of restructuring the country under the government of ex-President Goodluck Jonathan but nothing was done.
He said, “Don’t forget that President Goodluck Jonathan ran under the auspices of South-South presidency. We talked about restructuring and resource control but he was there for six years and the resources were not controlled neither were they handed over to the South-South. It is much more than that.
“I am from the South-South and while I agree that we are not fairly treated, I don’t also agree anybody can set the country on fire; no president should act on such threat. A more mature person won’t make such a comment.”
Continuing the minister added, “Why is it that it is only when the north is in power that we raise the issue of restructuring? Have we asked ourselves that we had the opportunity of been in government for six years and nothing changed?
“I’m not against the president addressing the demands but the president can’t address them under threats.”