Rotimi Amaechi, former governor of Rivers State and ex-minister of transportation, has voiced support for the removal of petrol subsidy in Nigeria, provided the savings are used to improve public welfare. Speaking on Friday during an interview on Channels Television's Morning Brief programme, Amaechi stated that the money previously spent on subsidy should be redirected to critical sectors such as education and healthcare. "I agree with the removal of oil subsidy. What I'm saying is that the savings should be given back to Nigerians," he said. He accused government agencies of mismanaging subsidy funds, claiming that ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) have been diverting money meant for the programme. "Nigerian MDAs are stealing the money in the name of subsidy. So why not we get the money and hand it back to Nigerians?" he said. Amaechi proposed that the government invest the savings in primary and secondary schools, universities, and primary healthcare centres to improve affordability and access. He cited his tenure as Rivers State governor, where his administration built primary schools and prioritised healthcare and education, as evidence that such investments yield tangible results. Amaechi did not specify how much money he believes has been lost to corruption or provide a detailed plan for fund allocation. He maintained that the core issue is not the removal of subsidy but ensuring that the financial benefits reach ordinary citizens.
Amaechi backs subsidy removal while acknowledging public suffering, yet offers no mechanism to ensure savings reach the poor. His claim that MDAs steal subsidy funds contradicts his silence on how to enforce accountability. If past governance is the benchmark, promises of better spending ring hollow without oversight. The real test is not in support for policy but in delivering visible change.
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