NIGERIA: Tension in Rivers community as armed men ambush Amaechi’s convoy

Azuka Egbonna, reports from Ubima
Former Rivers Governor, Rotimi Amaechi
Tensions flared in Rivers State on Friday, March 6, after gunmen believed to be political thugs attacked the convoy of former governor Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, triggering a brief exchange of gunfire with security operatives along the Ubima,Omuanwa road in Ikwerre Local Government Area.
The incident occurred as Amaechi, a former governor of Rivers State and ex–Minister of Transportation under the administration of Muhammadu Buhari, traveled to his hometown of Ubima to complete his electronic registration as a member of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Witnesses and local sources said suspected thugs had already taken positions along the route leading into Ubima hours before the former governor arrived. Around midday, the armed men reportedly erected a roadblock along the Ubima-Omuanwa axis, preventing buses carrying ADC supporters from entering the community. Several vehicles transporting party members were forced to turn back amid growing fears of violence.
The situation escalated when Amaechi’s convoy attempted to pass through the area. According to security sources, the gunmen confronted the convoy, prompting security operatives accompanying the former governor to respond. A brief gun battle followed, with the attackers eventually retreating into nearby bushes after being overwhelmed by the superior firepower of the security detail.
The attack came only hours after another suspected act of political intimidation in the community. Late Thursday night, unknown individuals reportedly set fire to the local ward office of the African Democratic Congress in Ubima. Residents said the assailants also fired gunshots into the air and sprayed bullets at the gate of Amaechi’s family home in what appeared to be an attempt to deter his planned visit.
Despite the tense security situation, Amaechi went ahead with his visit and successfully completed his e-registration as a member of the party. Hundreds of supporters gathered in Ubima to witness the exercise, signaling strong grassroots backing despite the intimidation.
During the visit, the former governor inspected the remains of the burned party office and addressed party faithful, urging them to remain calm and avoid retaliatory violence.
Amaechi praised security agencies for their swift response in restoring order. He specifically commended the Rivers State Commissioner of Police, as well as officials from the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, for their prompt intervention during the attack.
The incident underscores the heightened political tensions in Rivers State, a region that has long been a flashpoint for intense political rivalries and election-related violence. Analysts say the attack could further deepen concerns about political intolerance and the use of thugs in Nigeria’s evolving political landscape as parties reposition ahead of future elections.
Authorities have not yet announced any arrests in connection with the attack, but security agencies say investigations are ongoing.
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