The statement credited to former Rivers State Governor and ADC Vice Presidential candidate, Rotimi Amaechi—“Only mad people will vote for Tinubu”—is not only reckless but also a direct affront to Nigeria’s democratic ethos. Such language is toxic, divisive, and legally indefensible.
The Electoral Act 2022 sets clear boundaries for political conduct. Section 92(1) prohibits the use of abusive language or slander during campaigns, while Section 92(2) criminalises hate speech and incitement. Amaechi’s remarks stigmatise millions of Nigerians based on their political choice, violating both the letter and spirit of the law.
Furthermore, Section 97 of the Electoral Act forbids campaigns that promote violence or hatred on the basis of political affiliation. Branding voters as “mad” for exercising their constitutional right to support a candidate is a textbook example of hate speech and undermines peaceful electoral conduct.
Political leaders are expected to elevate discourse, not degrade it. Amaechi’s rhetoric betrays contempt for the electorate and reduces legitimate political debate to insults. The 1999 Constitution (as amended) guarantees freedom of choice and association; to delegitimise voters with derogatory language is an assault on those constitutional rights.
Tutoring Amaechi on Democratic Norms: Amaechi must be reminded that; Campaigns must be issue-based, not personality-driven insults; Hate speech is prosecutable under both the Electoral Act and the Cybercrimes Act 2015, which penalises online dissemination of incitement; and Peaceful conduct is not optional—it is a legal and moral obligation for all candidates and parties.
In contrast, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has demonstrated labour-conscious governance. His recent 30-day petrol discount on NNPCL-supplied fuel is a pragmatic intervention to cushion Nigerians against global economic shocks. This is the type of responsive leadership Nigeria needs: policies that ease burdens rather than rhetoric that inflames divisions.
Amaechi’s remarks are a violation of democratic ethics and statutory law. He must be called to order immediately. Nigeria’s democracy cannot thrive on toxic rhetoric, hate speech, or reckless insults against voters. The Electoral Act 2022 demands peaceful conduct, issue-based campaigns, and respect for the electorate. Amaechi’s words fail all three tests.
Nigeria deserves leaders who debate policies, not demean citizens. President Tinubu’s labour-friendly interventions stand as evidence of constructive governance, while Amaechi’s rhetoric is a reminder of the dangers of irresponsible opposition politics.
