Weeks After Obi Attack, Gunmen Ambush Amaechi’s Convoy in Rivers

Barely 14 days after the reported attack on the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, in Edo State, another prominent opposition figure and member of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi, has come under attack in Rivers State.

Amaechi’s convoy was reportedly attacked on Friday along the Ubima–Omuanwa Road in Ikwerre Local Government Area while the former Minister of Transportation was on his way to formally register as a member of the ADC at his ward in Ubima.

Sources said gunmen attempted to ambush the convoy but were swiftly repelled by security operatives attached to the former minister.

The attack came hours after yet-to-be-identified persons reportedly set parts of the ADC office in Ubima ablaze and also vandalised Amaechi’s family residence in the community.

Despite the incident, Amaechi proceeded with his registration on the party’s digital platform and commended security agencies for their swift response in foiling the attack.

He called on security forces to track down those responsible and ensure they are brought to justice.

The former governor also urged supporters of the ADC not to retaliate, stressing that acts of violence would not deter him from continuing his political engagements.

“Our role is to remain calm and peaceful. We are marching to Aso Rock Presidential Villa. What they are doing is a distraction. What they are doing will not put food on your table,” Amaechi said.

“Tell them we are hungry. People are dropping dead every day because of hunger, and a few people are stealing our money, and they say we should keep quiet. We can no longer keep quiet.”

Amaechi further called on residents of Rivers State to register as members of the ADC in preparation for the party’s forthcoming primary elections.

Meanwhile, efforts to get an official reaction from the Rivers State Police Command proved abortive, as the Police Public Relations Officer, Grace Iringe-Koko, did not respond to calls and text messages seeking comments on the incident.

The development comes amid growing concerns over the safety of political actors following the recent attack on Obi in Edo State, raising fresh questions about political intolerance and security in the country.