The announcement of Rotimi Amaechi's 2027 presidential manifesto has been met with significant public interest. His plan, which reportedly focuses on key areas such as anti-corruption, infrastructure development, and economic reform, aims to position him as a viable alternative to the current administration. However, a critical analysis of his proposals reveals a series of contradictions and inconsistencies when measured against his past conduct and performance in government.

The Anti-Corruption Promise: A Contradiction in Terms?

One of the most ambitious and, to many, controversial points in Amaechi's manifesto is his pledge to "stop corruption within four years of a single term." This bold promise is particularly noteworthy given his own history in public office and the numerous corruption allegations that have trailed him.

Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly (1999-2007): Amaechi served as Speaker for an unprecedented eight years. While he was a prominent figure in the legislative arm of government, there is no public record of him formulating or championing a landmark anti-corruption policy during this period. This raises a crucial question: why was a policy he now champions as a presidential candidate not a priority when he held a powerful legislative position for nearly a decade?

Corruption Allegations: The former governor has been at the center of several corruption allegations. The most prominent of these is the alleged misappropriation of N96 billion during his tenure as governor, an issue the Supreme Court has ordered him to face trial over. The perception that a man facing such serious allegations would be the one to single-handedly eradicate corruption within four years is a significant credibility gap. Critics argue that his promise is more of a political tool than a genuine commitment, as it fails to acknowledge the systemic and institutional nature of corruption in Nigeria.

Infrastructure Development: The Railway Conundrum

Amaechi's manifesto likely highlights his achievements as Minister of Transportation, particularly in the railway sector. He oversaw the completion of several major railway projects, a point he will undoubtedly leverage. However, a closer look at his actions as minister reveals a pattern that critics are quick to challenge.

The Nigeria-Niger Republic Railway: The decision to build a $2 billion railway line to the Niger Republic while a similar project was not prioritized for his home state of Rivers State is a major point of contention. This has been widely criticized as a misplacement of priorities, with many arguing that the economic benefits of a railway connecting major commercial hubs within Nigeria would have been far greater than an international line to a landlocked neighbor.

Lack of Development in His Home State: The absence of a major railway project in Rivers State during his ministerial tenure is a political wound that his opponents will not let heal. It raises questions about his commitment to his own people and whether his decisions were always guided by a national, rather than a regional or personal, agenda.

The Political Conduct Question: A Matter of Trust

Amaechi's political conduct has also come under scrutiny, particularly his role in the events following the 2015 general elections.

The Bukola Saraki and Yakubu Dogara Saga: It is a well-documented fact that Amaechi, who was a key figure in the 2015 presidential campaign, worked with Bukola Saraki and others to subvert President Muhammadu Buhari's preferred candidates for the Senate Presidency and Speaker of the House of Representatives. While he was a staunch supporter of Buhari's presidency, his actions in the National Assembly leadership race demonstrate a willingness to operate against the wishes of his political leader. This raises questions about his loyalty and ability to work within a unified political structure. His promise of a 'single-term' Presidency, which is likely designed to foster trust and an image of a leader not beholden to re-election politics, is a narrative that can be easily challenged by his past actions.

A Review of Past Performance: Governor and Minister

An evaluation of Amaechi's performance in his previous roles provides a mixed but telling picture.

As Governor of Rivers State (2007-2015): While he is credited with achievements in infrastructure development (e.g., roads, schools, and hospitals) and improving security in the state, his administration was also plagued by controversies. The aforementioned corruption allegations and a tumultuous political relationship with his successor, Nyesom Wike, created a period of political instability.

As Minister of Transportation (2015-2022): His tenure as minister is largely remembered for the revitalization of the railway sector. However, critics also point to a neglect of the maritime sector, with many stakeholders arguing that the industry's potential was not fully realized under his watch. The focus on rail at the expense of other transport sectors is a key criticism that can be used to challenge his ability to implement a holistic and balanced development plan.

Sincerely, Rotimi Amaechi's 2027 presidential manifesto presents a vision for Nigeria that is ambitious and, on paper, compelling. However, his political rivals and the Nigerian public will undoubtedly scrutinize his past actions to test the credibility of his promises. His history as a long-serving politician, marred by corruption allegations, political maneuvering, and perceived missteps in policy, creates a significant hurdle for his presidential ambition. To be taken seriously, his manifesto must not only outline a plan for the future but also provide a convincing explanation for the shortcomings and controversies of his past.