African Democratic Congress (ADC) vice presidential candidate Rotimi Amaechi says Nigeria's political problems will not end unless citizens stop accepting bad leadership and hold public officials accountable.
Speaking at a conference on politics and governance hosted by the Catholic Men's Guild, Catholic Church of the Assumption, Falomo, Ikoyi, Lagos, Amaechi argued that politicians continue to abuse public office because many Nigerians fail to demand consequences for corruption and poor performance.
"The problem of politics in Nigeria is you," he told participants.
"Politicians are stealing your money.
"They are showing you they are stealing your money.
"They say there is nothing you can do, and you have done nothing."
Amaechi said insecurity, unemployment and poverty are closely linked, arguing that governments should focus on creating jobs and wealth instead of relying only on security operations.
Drawing from his time as Rivers State governor, he said investments in schools, health centers and rural roads helped reduce crime by creating employment.
He also said Nigeria needs leaders who are willing to make difficult decisions and citizens who judge politicians by their records instead of empty promises.
Earlier, Dominican priest and philosopher Rev. Fr. Prof. Anthony Akinwale O.P. said politics and governance cannot be separated because good governance begins with good politics.
He described politics as an ethical duty aimed at the common good and warned that what many Nigerians now call politics is "brigandage" driven by the pursuit of power, profit and personal pleasure.
Fellow speaker, Rev. Fr. John Oluoma also called for stronger institutions, the rule of law and constitutional reforms that would give more power to citizens, improve accountability and encourage inclusive governance.
Fr. Oluoma argued that politicians who campaign with lies should not be expected to govern with integrity.
Former senator Ben Murray-Bruce urged leaders to focus more on practical governance than politics.
Drawing from his experience in public service, he said poor advice from aides often leads to bad decisions in government.
He also warned that Nigeria's growing population, high unemployment and weak planning could worsen insecurity if leaders fail to act.
The speakers agreed that Nigeria's future depends on accountable leadership, stronger institutions and citizens who actively demand better governance.
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