By Oladimeji Ibrahim
In a recent statement, former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, declared: “We are all hungry. If you’re not hungry, I am. If you want us to remove the man in power, we can remove him from this power.” While this remark may seem like a bold rallying cry in the face of hardship, it’s crucial that Nigerians critically analyze the motives behind such comments, especially when they come from politicians who have once wielded significant power.
*Disagreeing with Amaechi: We Are Not All Hungry for the Same Reasons*
Let’s be clear: yes, there is hunger in the land—both literal and metaphorical. However, the hunger Rotimi Amaechi refers to cannot be equated with the daily struggle of the average Nigerian. When he says “we are all hungry,” he speaks from a different perspective, perhaps political hunger—a thirst for relevance, power, or influence. It is disingenuous to lump the masses, who can barely afford two meals a day, into the same category as those who’ve benefitted immensely from the corridors of power.
This is exactly where Nigerians must be discerning. We must not fall cheaply for political gimmicks or cleverly crafted populist statements meant to sway public emotions and manipulate the prevailing hardship for personal or political gain. Those who were silent—or complicit—when policies were made that contributed to our present economic woes must not now pretend to speak for the people.
*Acknowledging the Reality: There is Hunger in the Land*
No honest analysis of Nigeria’s current state can ignore the widespread economic hardship ravaging the country. PBAT came into office in 2023 under the banner of a Renewed Hope agenda. Sadly, two years in, that hope remains unrenewed for many. The inflation rate has continued to soar, the cost of living is unbearable, food prices have skyrocketed, and insecurity still haunts communities across the country.
President Tinubu must take urgent action. So far, his administration has struggled to meet even 50% of its promises to Nigerians. The poor are getting poorer, and the middle class is rapidly vanishing. The reality is grim, and if no deliberate efforts are made to arrest the decline, the consequences could be disastrous. The president must rise to the occasion and match rhetoric with real, people-centered action.
*2027 Is Coming: Nigerians Must Be Prepared*
As we approach the 2027 general election, Nigerians—especially the poor and marginalized—must be vigilant, informed, and resolute. The lessons from the 2023 election are still fresh. Despite the wave of hope and the enthusiasm that swept through the electorate, many felt betrayed by the outcomes and the process. Voter apathy, electoral irregularities, and manipulation undermined the people’s will in many instances.
We cannot afford to repeat the mistakes of the past. Every Nigerian must understand that elections have consequences, and our votes shape the future. We must scrutinize those who present themselves for leadership—not by their words, but by their track records, consistency, and connection to the struggles of ordinary people.
If someone who was in power for eight years now claims to be hungry, what did he do to ensure others would not be? If a politician seeks our support now, we must ask: Where were you when the people suffered? What have you done with the opportunities you had? Why should we trust you again?
*Beyond 2027: The Future is in Our Hands*
Our focus should not just be about winning or losing elections in 2027. It should be about building a country that works for everyone—where leadership is accountable, institutions are strong, and citizens are empowered. Political awareness must be sustained beyond election cycles. Civil society, youth movements, religious and traditional institutions must work together to raise consciousness, mobilize civic participation, and demand better governance at all levels.
The future of Nigeria lies in the hands of its citizens. As 2027 approaches, let us not be swayed by convenient soundbites or hunger-induced empathy. Let us instead be motivated by purpose, guided by truth, and united by a shared vision for a better Nigeria.
The hunger for change is valid—but it must be driven by the people, not recycled politicians who remember the masses only when it’s time to contest again.
Oladimeji Ibrahim is a writer and an advocate for good governance. He writes from Akinyele LG, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria.
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