ROTIMI Chibuike Amaechi and Nasir el-Rufai’s recent criticisms of the Nigerian political sphere and the Tinubu government have raised some eyebrows. Their sudden interest in speaking out against the vices in our system and the government’s policies and actions has left many wondering if they are genuinely concerned about the country’s wellbeing or simply trying to distract from their own past actions.
Amaechi’s speeches, in particular, have been perceived as insulting and hypocritical. Given his own history in politics, it is difficult to take his criticisms seriously. His words come across as an attempt to rewrite his own narrative and distance himself from past controversies. It is akin to the devil explaining to human beings how it manipulates their destinies, inflicts sickness, causes havoc, and commits many evils, only to turn around and offer advice on how to survive its evil antics.
The question remains: can Amaechi and el-Rufai be taken seriously? Have they suddenly developed a conscience, or are they simply trying to deflect attention from their own roles in the escalation of Nigeria’s problems? Their actions speak louder than their words, and Nigerians will not easily forget their past transgressions.
Mallam Nasir el-Rufai is not one who should criticise Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. He cannot manipulate all of us to join him to bemoan his loss in a government he worked assiduously to foist on us. He followed Tinubu to Chatham House, London, where they smeared Nigeria in a putrid mud. If not for National Assembly, he would have been made a minister. So, at what point did he start seeing President Tinubu as one who is incapable of ruling Nigeria?
ALSO READ: Bandits Should Be Brought To Justice Not The Negotiation Table; By Owei Lakemfa
The problem with our elites is that they believe we have very short memory. They insult us collectively by their statements and actions. They boast anywhere that Nigerians are the easiest people to rule. We can take shit without qualms. El-Rufai and Amaechi did not see anything wrong in the locust years of Buhari’s administration. A regime many believed and have confessed was the worst so far in our history. Both of them played visible roles in that government that completely opened up our fault lines and quicken the degradation of our economy.
The question remains: can Amaechi and el-Rufai be taken seriously? Have they suddenly developed a conscience, or are they simply trying to deflect attention from their own roles in the escalation of Nigeria’s problems? Their actions speak louder than their words, and Nigerians will not easily forget their past transgressions.
In conclusion, Amaechi and el-Rufai’s recent criticisms of the government are nothing but a clever distraction. To be fair, President Tinubu has shown more patriotism than Buhari. Their attempt to manipulate public opinion and shift the focus away from their own failures can only be futile. Nigerians deserve better than to be deceived by their empty rhetoric. We need leaders who will take responsibility for their actions and work towards a better future for all.
Oshiomhole’s Startling Allegations Of Illegal Mining Against Military Generals
COMRADE Adams Oshiomhole, the former Edo State governor, has made a startling allegation that retired military generals are involved in illegal mining in Nigeria. This claim, made during the 2025 budget defence of the Ministry of Solid Minerals, is not entirely new. In 2024, the Minister of Solid Minerals, Mr. Dele Alake, hinted at the involvement of powerful Nigerians in illegal mining.
ALSO READ: Tchiani: Rabble-rouser Or God Sent? By Hassan Gimba
Previous warnings have been issued by other officials, including Hon. Uche Oga in 2021, who revealed that private jets were being used to transport gold from mining sites. These allegations demand immediate attention and investigation by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Under the Nigerian constitution, all solid minerals, oil, and gas belong to the federal government. Any mineral extraction outside the framework of an agreement with the federal government is illegal. The consequences of inaction will be severe, with potential conflicts over land use, environmental degradation, and health risks for local communities.
The gravity of this issue cannot be overstated. Illegal mining is linked to banditry, with armed groups involved in both activities. This nexus is fuelled by conflicts over mineral resources, leading to violence. It is alarming that highly placed individuals and foreigners are reportedly engaged in this illicit act.
ALSO READ: Becoming A Vessel Unto Honour Monthly Focus For February 2025; By Pastor Favour Abu Onoja
The lack of decisive action by the government to tackle illegal mining is concerning. In contrast, the Joint Task Force (JTF) has been effective in combating oil bunkering in the Niger Delta. The same level of commitment is needed to address illegal solid minerals’ extraction.
The Minister of Solid Minerals, Mr. Dele Alake, has been criticised for his handling of the issue. There are people who believe that Alake is one of the sleeping ministers in this administration. The ministry’s contribution to the 2025 fiscal plan is underwhelming, while billions of dollars from illegal mining is allegedly being siphoned into private pockets.
Under the Nigerian constitution, all solid minerals, oil, and gas belong to the federal government. Any mineral extraction outside the framework of an agreement with the federal government is illegal. The consequences of inaction will be severe, with potential conflicts over land use, environmental degradation, and health risks for local communities.
ALSO READ: Strengthening Democracy In Nigeria; By Jibrin Ibrahim
Is The Democratic Honeymoon Over In Nigeria? By Aminu Habibu Jahun
The government must deploy its law enforcement resources to identify and prosecute those involved in illegal mining. The link between armed groups and gold mining in Nigeria, as reported by several media publications, must be investigated.
In conclusion, the allegations of illegal mining in Nigeria demand urgent attention. The government must take decisive action to address this issue, which has significant implications for the country’s security, economy, and environment.
Comrade Amechi, Lagos-based trade union activist, writes this column, ‘The Observer’s View’, every Tuesday.
