Challenge leadership failure in Nigeria, Amaechi urges citizens
By Msugh Ityokura
Former governor of Rivers state, Rotimi Amaechi has urged Nigerians to challenge leadership failure in the country saying by remaining mute, politicians will continue to have a field day while the masses suffer
He spoke Thursday in Abuja at an event, “The National Social Cohesion Dialogue/Unveiling of the 2025 Nigeria Social Cohesion Survey Report” organized by the Africa Polling Institute, API.
He challenged Nigerians not to remain mute in the face of poor leadership which has brought untold hardship on the people pointing out that the politicians will continue to loot the nation dry if they remain unchallenged by the masses
The former minister of transportation said silence enables politicians to have a “field day,” implying unchecked power and corruption. , adding that the suffering of ordinary citizens is a direct consequence of leadership failure.
He argued that active civic engagement and accountability are necessary to improve governance highlighting the importance of social cohesion and citizen participation in governance as critical factors for Nigeria’s progress
The event and the survey report aim to foster dialogue on national unity and address challenges facing the country’s leadership and social fabric.
The Executive Director, ED of API, Prof. Bell Ihua highlighted key findings and urged Nigerians to prioritize national identity over ethnic, religious or regional affiliations
He emphasized that Nigeria faces serious challenges such as low trust in government institutions, high polarization, and limited access to justice, noting that many Nigerians trust traditional and religious leaders more than government bodies.
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Ihua pointed out that justice is often perceived as accessible only to the wealthy and powerful, fueling disillusionment with the state.
He explained that the 2025 report, the fourth national social cohesion survey by API provides valuable insights into public trust, social relations, civic engagement, and perceptions of unity, designed to inform inclusive governance, peace building and development
He also stressed the importance of equipping the media with data literacy to reshape public narratives toward unity and called for data driven policy responses to address issues like public mistrust, perceptions of injustice, gender inequality, and insecurity.
The ED urged citizens to see themselves as Nigerians first, which he described as essential for building understanding and strengthening social cohesion across the country.
