By Our Reporter
ABUJA (CONVERSEER) – Former Minister of Transportation and ex-governor of Rivers State, Rotimi Amaechi, has cautioned that Nigeria’s leadership could face challenges if regional balance is ignored.
In a report published by Leadership on Tuesday, 10 February 2026, Amaechi noted that while campaigns would continue regardless of a candidate’s origin, electing a leader from the North could raise questions about why leadership becomes contentious whenever power shifts to the South.
He further warned that if power were to remain in the South beyond its expected term, it could create friction between the two regions.
Amaechi also emphasised that regional identity should not be the main determinant in leadership selection. He argued that competence and vision should outweigh geographical considerations in choosing Nigeria’s leaders.
In his view, what matters most is the ability to govern effectively and unite the country.
He said, “But if you then elect somebody from the North, I am not saying we are not going to campaign, but it will be difficult to give up power, because they will ask the North, ‘why is it that when power comes to the South there is a problem?’”
