Former Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission chairman Sam Amadi has sharply criticised Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah, alleging political repression and weak administration despite what he described as substantial resources and public goodwill available to the state government.
Amadi said Mbah’s government had shown little tolerance for rival political voices and was intentionally limiting criticism within Enugu State. He argued that the administration was underperforming without justification.
Quick facts
- Sam Amadi accused Enugu Governor Peter Mbah of stifling opposition and dissent.
- He cited deteriorating infrastructure, youth joblessness and wider economic pressures as unresolved concerns.
- Amadi alleged intimidation of opposition figures and outspoken residents.
- He questioned reported obstacles to an NDC town hall involving Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso.
- He said support for President Bola Tinubu should not undermine political pluralism.
“You are failing unnecessarily. You are suppressing opposition instead of delivering governance. Enugu people deserve better,” Amadi said.
He contended that the Mbah administration had not provided effective leadership and was devoting more energy to confronting critics than to tackling the state’s core problems. These include rundown infrastructure, unemployment among young people and economic hardship, he said.
Amadi said a functioning democracy depends on opposition parties and constructive scrutiny. A government that prevents citizens from speaking freely, he warned, risks moving toward authoritarian rule.
He further alleged that opposition politicians and residents who have publicly challenged the administration’s policies have faced harassment and intimidation.
Amadi urged the governor to change course and concentrate on fulfilling commitments made to Ndi Enugu, rather than pursuing those seen as political adversaries.
He also raised concerns over reports that a proposed NDC town hall featuring the party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and vice-presidential candidate Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, had been prevented from going ahead. Amadi asked why opposition activity was increasingly encountering difficulties in Enugu.
Comparing Enugu with Imo, Anambra and Ebonyi, he said rival parties appeared to have greater scope to operate in those neighbouring states.
Amadi said Mbah was entitled to back President Bola Tinubu, but maintained that such political support must not erode the rights of opposition parties or the principle of political diversity.
