The family house of former Minister of Transportation, Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, in his hometown of Ubima, was attacked on Friday as political tension escalated in the state.
The secretariat of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), located close to Amaechi’s residence, was also set ablaze by yet-to-be-identified assailants.
The attacks reportedly happened shortly before Amaechi arrived in Ubima to officially kickstart the ADC membership registration exercise in Rivers State.
According to reports, the assailants later attempted to attack Amaechi’s convoy as he made his way to the venue. Security agents accompanying the former governor engaged the attackers in a gun battle and eventually repelled them.
Speaking to supporters after completing his registration, Amaechi called for calm and urged residents not to retaliate.
“Don’t be violent, as violence may lead to death, but they cannot stop us from meeting in our communities,” he said.
Amaechi also sympathized with the landlord of the ADC secretariat and members of Ward 8 in Ikwerre Local Government Area whose property was affected by the attack.
He praised the response of security agencies, including the police, DSS, and NSCDC, describing their intervention as professional and timely.
“I thank the Commissioner of Police and the DSS director. They showed a lot of professionalism immediately I contacted them. But they must ensure those responsible are prosecuted,” he added.
The former minister further urged Rivers residents to remain peaceful while encouraging mass registration into the ADC ahead of future elections.
“Our role is to remain calm and peaceful. We are marching to Aso Rock. What they are doing is a distraction,” Amaechi told supporters.
Authorities are yet to officially identify the attackers or confirm if arrests have been made
