Former Minister of Transport, Rotimi Amaechi, has strongly rebutted the allegations made against him in a book by the former Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority, Hadiza Usman, titled ‘Stepping on Toes: My Odyssey at the Nigerian Ports Authority.’ Amaechi, who served under former President Muhammadu Buhari, spoke at TheNiche annual lecture in Lagos with the theme “Why We Stride and Slip: Leadership, Nationalism, and the Nigerian Condition.” He contested Usman’s claims that he orchestrated her removal as the NPA Managing Director, providing evidence of her indictment and removal endorsed by the President. Amaechi also expressed frustration with the docility of Nigerians in demanding good governance and accountability, stating that politicians’ lies are rarely challenged, and the public remains apathetic. He highlighted the need for Nigerians to take action and not passively accept political deception. The event, attended by distinguished public servants, also featured a panel discussion and the induction of Amaechi and Dr. Uma Eleazu into TheNiche Hall of Fame.
