Amaechi, who recently defected from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), believes that the only way to stop President Bola Tinubu from returning to power is if Nigerians “rise against him” at the polls not just in words, but in numbers, action, and unity.

In a democracy, removing a sitting president is not about force, noise, or prayers, it’s about numbers, action, and the ballot. Former Minister of Transportation and ex-Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi, recently made this point clear while addressing Nigerians ahead of the 2027 elections.

It’s not just about Tinubu — It’s about the people

Speaking at the public presentation of the 2025 Nigeria Social Cohesion Survey Report by the Africa Polling Institute in Abuja, Amaechi emphasized that the 2027 presidential election should not be seen as a typical political contest between parties.

Instead, he framed it as a battle between “Nigerians and the bandits.” His message? If Nigerians are serious about change, they must organize, mobilize, and vote,  not just grumble in frustration.

“If you think you will just sit down and do that, may God be with you,” he said.

The power of the majority

Amaechi’s argument rests on a powerful fact: the elite ruling class,  the ones who benefit from the current system are less than 100,000 in number. Nigeria’s population is over 200 million. So why does the smaller group hold so much power? 

Because they act, they plan, and they work in unity. Meanwhile, the majority stay silent or distracted.

“Youths sit in their homes, complain and grumble,” Amaechi said. “But the same youths refuse to act. Do they think the elites will surrender power on their own?”

Complaints won’t change anything

Amaechi didn’t mince words when addressing Nigerian youths, especially those who have lost faith in the country. He acknowledged that the system feels rigged against them, but insisted that this helplessness is not imposed, it’s chosen.

He revealed that even he once considered leaving Nigeria. 

According to him, it was his wife who insisted they stay, reminding him that “Nigeria is lovable. It’s lovely.” This sentiment wasn’t meant to romanticize the nation’s challenges, but to say that the country is still worth fighting for especially by those who call it home.

What can Nigerians do?

If Nigerians truly want to “sack” President Tinubu in 2027, here are four key things they must do:

• Register and Get Your PVCs Early: No change is possible if citizens don’t vote. It starts with being eligible and prepared.
• Unite Across Divides: Ethnic and religious sentiments have long been used to divide the electorate. Amaechi suggests this time, Nigerians must come together — not just as voters for a candidate, but as defenders of a different future.
• Hold Political Conversations Offline: Twitter threads and WhatsApp rants won’t win elections. Talk to your families, neighbours, and communities. Get them involved.
• Join or Support Viable Alternatives: Amaechi himself has joined the ADC and promised to serve only one term if given the chance to lead. Whether you believe in him or another candidate, supporting alternatives with integrity is the only way to challenge incumbents.