(DDM) — Former Minister of Transportation and ex-Rivers State governor Rotimi Amaechi has called for a full investigation after armed men reportedly attacked his convoy while he was travelling to his hometown to formally register with the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
The incident, which occurred in Ubima community in Ikwerre Local Government Area of Rivers State, has heightened political tensions in the oil-rich South-South state and sparked fresh debate about political security ahead of future elections.
Amaechi was reportedly on his way to launch a membership registration drive for the ADC in his ward when suspected thugs allegedly mounted a roadblock along the route leading into Ubima. Witnesses said buses believed to be carrying ADC supporters were stopped and turned back before the former minister arrived in the community.
According to accounts from party members and local sources, the attackers had already set the stage for confrontation hours earlier. On Thursday night, unknown individuals reportedly set ablaze the local ward office of the ADC in Ubima, destroying party materials and infrastructure meant for the registration exercise.
When Amaechi’s convoy approached the area around midday on Friday, gunmen allegedly opened fire. Security operatives attached to the former governor responded, leading to a brief exchange of gunfire before the attackers reportedly fled the scene.
No immediate casualties were confirmed, but the incident has drawn widespread attention due to Amaechi’s political profile and the growing rivalry among political actors in Rivers State.
Speaking after touring the burnt party office, Amaechi commended security agencies for responding quickly to the situation. He specifically acknowledged the efforts of the police commissioner, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps for their intervention during the attack.
However, the former minister insisted that the incident must not be ignored and called for those responsible to be identified and prosecuted.
According to him, failure to bring the perpetrators to justice could embolden further acts of political violence.
Amaechi also urged the Rivers State government to strengthen security measures across the state, warning that the absence of effective protection for citizens could push communities toward self-defence.
“I have been a governor, and I understand the consequences of failing to protect lives,” he said while addressing supporters.
Beyond the immediate security concerns, Amaechi used the moment to rally members of the ADC in Rivers State, urging them to intensify grassroots mobilisation. He encouraged supporters to register massively with the party, emphasizing that strong membership would be critical in future elections.
His remarks also hinted at broader political ambitions as Nigeria gradually moves toward the next electoral cycle.
“We are marching to Aso Rock,” Amaechi told party supporters, referencing the Nigerian presidential seat located at Aso Rock.
The former minister framed the attack as a distraction from what he described as deeper national challenges, including economic hardship and widespread hunger affecting many Nigerians.
Amaechi has remained a significant political figure in Nigeria for more than two decades. Before serving as Minister of Transportation between 2015 and 2023, he was the Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly and later governor of the state from 2007 to 2015. He also previously chaired the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, making him one of the most influential political actors in the country during that period.
His recent alignment with the ADC and his public criticism of current political conditions have intensified speculation about his future political plans, especially as political groups begin early positioning for the 2027 general elections.
Observers say the reported attack on his convoy reflects the rising political tension already emerging in several states as parties reorganize their structures and mobilize supporters.
For Amaechi and his supporters, however, the message following the confrontation appeared clear: the political campaign, he says, will continue despite the intimidation.
