Former Minister of Transportation and ex-governor of Rivers State, Rotimi Amaechi, has described himself as one of the most straightforward politicians in the country, insisting that he has remained committed to honesty throughout his years in public service.
Amaechi made the remarks during an interview with media personality Chude Jideonwo, where he spoke extensively about corruption, transparency and the privileges that come with holding public office.
The former presidential aspirant said many Nigerians are often surprised when they meet him because his lifestyle does not reflect the image they usually associate with politicians.
According to him, “I’m the simplest politician you can meet in Nigeria. When they meet me and see how simple and ordinary I am, it sweeps them off their feet.”
Speaking on corruption, Amaechi acknowledged that maintaining transparency in public office can be difficult but maintained that he has never deliberately taken money that does not belong to him.
“When I say I won’t steal money, 80% of the time I’m serious. Is it easy to swear to God and say in your life you won’t steal?” he said.
The former minister noted that discussions about corruption are often more complex than they appear. He argued that public office sometimes creates opportunities and influence that can indirectly benefit office holders without necessarily involving the theft of public funds.
“Transparency is not an easy thing in terms of corruption. Have you really gone to take people’s money, no,” he stated.
Amaechi further explained that access to government positions often makes it easier for public officials to secure loans and other financial opportunities that may not have been available to them outside office.
“Most of the things you have, you really have to say that the office helped you to influence it, so there are a lot of loans some of us took, if it weren’t the government they wouldn’t give you,” he added.
Amaechi, who has occupied several high-profile positions including Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Governor of Rivers State and Minister of Transportation, has consistently defended his record in public service and often spoken on the need for reforms in government.
