Only a Madman Will Vote for Tinubu in 2027 — Amaechi

Rotimi Amaechi, a chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has criticised President Bola Tinubu’s economic policies, declaring that Nigerians who support the president’s re-election bid in 2027 would be making an irrational choice.

Amaechi made the remarks on Thursday during an ADC town hall meeting in Edo State, where he urged residents to reject Tinubu at the next general election.

The former Minister of Transportation faulted the administration’s decision to remove the petrol subsidy, arguing that the policy had contributed to rising living costs and made it increasingly difficult for many households to afford basic necessities.

“I read on social media that it is in 2027 that we will know how many madmen we have in Nigeria. It is only a madman that can vote for Tinubu,” Amaechi said.

He added that Tinubu should not win the state if voters were dissatisfied with his administration’s performance.

Amaechi also accused some supporters of the president of backing him out of personal interest rather than because of the impact of his policies on ordinary Nigerians.

He rejected Tinubu’s description of the subsidy removal as an act of courage, arguing that there was a difference between making a difficult decision and implementing a policy without adequately considering its consequences.

“There is a difference between courage and recklessness. Tinubu wasn’t courageous; he was reckless,” he said.

The ADC chieftain lamented the pressure facing households, saying many Nigerians were struggling to provide food and other basic necessities.

He also criticised Nigeria’s energy sector, arguing that the country had failed to convert its substantial crude oil and natural gas resources into broad-based economic prosperity.

Amaechi called for policies that would encourage domestic production and reduce the cost burden on consumers and businesses. He said the ADC’s presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, would introduce a production-based subsidy arrangement aimed at supporting local production if elected.

The proposal comes amid renewed debate over the removal of petrol subsidy and the government’s efforts to manage rising fuel prices.

Tinubu’s administration has defended the reforms, arguing that subsidy payments placed a heavy burden on public finances. Amaechi’s comments add to the political debate ahead of the 2027 election, as opposition figures continue to challenge the government’s economic record.