Suspected gunmen on Friday attacked the convoy of former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, shortly after he arrived to formally register as a member of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Ikwerre Local Government Area of Rivers State.
Witnesses said sporadic gunshots were heard in parts of the Ubima community as Amaechi’s convoy approached the venue of the registration exercise, triggering panic among residents and supporters who had gathered for the event.
Security operatives swiftly intervened to restore calm and prevent the situation from escalating further.
Despite the incident, Amaechi proceeded with the registration in his hometown before addressing supporters and residents.
The Nigeria Police Force in Rivers State had yet to issue an official statement on the incident as of the time of filing this report.
However, speaking after the event, the former governor condemned the attack but praised security agencies for their prompt response and professionalism in managing the situation.
Amaechi said personnel of the police, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) acted swiftly to stabilise the situation.
“I want to commend the Commissioner of Police and the Director of the DSS for their cooperation. They showed a lot of professionalism. Immediately I made contact with them, they responded. In fact, I wasn’t expecting that level of cooperation,” he said.
He stressed that those responsible for the attack must be identified and prosecuted to deter future incidents.
“They must show that this will not continue by prosecuting those involved in this crime. I have been a governor and I know the consequences of not protecting the lives of people,” he said.
Amaechi also appealed to residents and supporters to remain calm and avoid actions capable of heightening tension in the area.
‘I Am Hungry’
The former minister used the occasion to criticise the current economic conditions in the country, saying widespread hardship and hunger had compelled citizens to demand greater accountability from those in power.
“We are marching to Aso Rock. What I do may not put food on your table, but the truth is that we are hungry. If you are not hungry, tell them that I am hungry,” he said.
Amaechi further urged supporters of the ADC to mobilise and register massively ahead of the 2027 general elections, stressing that the strength of the party would depend on the size of its membership.
He also challenged the current administration to present achievements comparable to the projects executed during his tenure as Minister of Transportation.
“I was Minister of Transportation and I can show you evidence of what I did. Let this government show one thing it has done, either in the North or in the South,” he said.
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