Gunmen attacked the convoy of former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi in Rivers State on Friday, while suspected thugs also set fire to the ward office of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Ubima community, Ikwerre Local Government Area.
The incident occurred as Amaechi returned to his hometown for his electronic registration as a member of the ADC.
According to reports, armed attackers mounted a roadblock along the Ubima–Omuanwa road to stop buses carrying party supporters heading to the community.
Residents said the attackers had already invaded the area the previous night, setting the ADC ward office ablaze.
The gunmen allegedly fired sporadically within the community and riddled the gate of Amaechi’s family residence with bullets in an attempt to intimidate supporters ahead of the political gathering.
Despite the tension, Amaechi’s convoy eventually arrived in Ubima around midday.
When the gunmen tried to halt the convoy, security personnel attached to the former governor engaged the attackers.
The gunmen reportedly fled into nearby bushes after the security team responded with superior firepower.
Speaking to hundreds of party supporters after inspecting the burnt office, Amaechi praised the swift intervention of security agencies, including the police, the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
He also urged authorities to investigate the incident thoroughly and bring those responsible to justice.
According to Amaechi, security agencies demonstrated professionalism after he contacted them during the attack.
However, he stressed that the authorities must prove their commitment by arresting and prosecuting those behind the violence.
The former Rivers State governor called on his supporters to remain calm and avoid retaliation despite the provocation.
Amaechi also urged the state government to strengthen security across Rivers State to prevent further attacks and ensure the safety of residents and political actors.
Addressing ADC members at the gathering, he encouraged massive party mobilisation, saying the party’s long-term objective is to compete strongly for national leadership in the next elections.
Meanwhile, the spokesperson for the Rivers State Police Command said the police would investigate the incident and provide further updates once details are confirmed.
