According to Daily Trust TV, former Minister of Defence and respected elder statesman, General Theophilus Danjuma (rtd), has openly criticized former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, over what he described as a glaring contradiction between Amaechi’s public pronouncements and his personal lifestyle. Danjuma, speaking during a televised interview, expressed deep concern over reports that Amaechi allegedly rented a hall for ₦30 million to celebrate his birthday, despite previously expressing solidarity with Nigerians struggling through economic hardship.
According to Danjuma, Amaechi had recently been vocal about the widespread hunger and suffering in the country, stating publicly that he felt the pain of ordinary Nigerians. However, Danjuma questioned the sincerity of such remarks when juxtaposed with the alleged lavish spending on a birthday celebration. “You told Nigerians you are hungry, but you rented a hall for ₦30 million to do your birthday,” Danjuma said pointedly, calling it an act of insensitivity in the face of the nation’s economic challenges.
He argued that public figures, particularly those with significant influence like Amaechi, have a duty to reflect the realities of the people in both word and action. Danjuma stated that Nigerians are increasingly frustrated with the double standards of political elites, who preach prudence but live extravagantly. He emphasized that during a time when many citizens cannot afford basic necessities like food, shelter, or healthcare, leaders should adopt modesty and lead by example.
The former general further noted that such displays of wealth, especially in public celebrations, risk alienating the people and weakening the moral authority of those who aspire to leadership. He suggested that if leaders want to be taken seriously, they must ensure that their personal choices align with the values they promote in public discourse.
While the alleged hall rental figure has not been officially confirmed, and Amaechi has yet to respond publicly to the remarks, Danjuma’s criticism has sparked conversations online and offline about accountability and lifestyle among Nigeria’s political class. Many Nigerians on social media have echoed Danjuma’s concerns, calling for more transparency and a redefinition of what leadership and service should look like in a time of national economic stress.
Observers note that Danjuma’s remarks, though sharp, reflect a growing public sentiment that those in or formerly in positions of power must take responsibility not just for their decisions while in office, but also for how their personal conduct impacts public perception and trust.
With no response yet from Amaechi’s side, it remains to be seen whether the former minister will address the allegations or clarify the details of his birthday celebration. Meanwhile, Danjuma’s words continue to stir debate about leadership, empathy, and the visible gap between Nigeria’s political elites and its struggling citizens.
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