Former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, has called for a full investigation into the armed attack on his convoy during a visit to his hometown in Rivers State.
The incident occurred on Friday as Amaechi was heading to his Ubima community in Ikwerre Local Government Area to formally register as a member of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Reports indicate that suspected thugs had already taken control of the road leading into the community before his arrival around 12:15 p.m.
The armed group allegedly set up a blockade and turned back buses believed to be carrying ADC supporters.
The tension had reportedly started the night before, when unknown individuals set fire to the party’s ward office in Ubima.
As Amaechi approached the area, gunmen reportedly opened fire on his convoy.
Fire For Fire
Security personnel accompanying the former minister immediately returned fire, forcing the attackers to flee the scene.
After visiting the burnt party office, Amaechi commended security agencies for their swift response during the incident.
He specifically acknowledged the efforts of the Rivers State Commissioner of Police, the Director of the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps.
Despite the intervention, Amaechi insisted that authorities must go further by identifying and prosecuting those responsible.
He stressed that failure to hold the perpetrators accountable could encourage similar acts of violence in the future.
“The best way to prove that this will not continue is to ensure that those behind this crime are arrested and prosecuted,” he said.
The former Rivers governor also urged the state government to strengthen security across the state to prevent further breakdown of law and order.
Amaechi Speaks
Addressing supporters, Amaechi called on ADC members in Rivers State to intensify mobilisation and register in large numbers, saying the party’s long-term goal remains the presidency.
Reflecting on his experience as a former governor, he warned that when governments fail to protect citizens, people may eventually resort to protecting themselves.
He appealed to party supporters to remain calm and peaceful, describing the attack as an attempt to distract them from their political mission.
Amaechi also spoke about the hardship facing many Nigerians, saying economic struggles and widespread hunger have left citizens frustrated.
According to him, the country’s wealth is being controlled by a small group of individuals while ordinary Nigerians continue to suffer.
Also Read: Armed Thugs Allegedly Block Rotimi Amaechi From Entering Ubima Ahead of ADC Registration
He encouraged party members to build strong grassroots support ahead of future elections, expressing confidence that voters would ultimately decide the outcome at the ballot box.