Former Governor of Rivers State and immediate past Minister of Transportation, Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, has strongly condemned the violent incidents that targeted his convoy and the African Democratic Congress (ADC) secretariat in his hometown of Ubima, Ikwerre Local Government Area, Rivers State.
On Thursday night, March 5, 2026, suspected political thugs invaded Ubima community, firing sporadically and setting ablaze the ADC ward secretariat in what appeared to be a deliberate attempt to disrupt the party's ongoing membership registration exercise.
The attackers also reportedly discharged firearms near Amaechi's family residence, heightening fear and panic among residents.
The violence escalated on Friday, March 6, 2026, when Amaechi visited the community to complete his electronic registration as an ADC member and engage with party supporters. En route to Ubima along the Omuanwa-Ubima road, armed thugs mounted a roadblock, halting vehicles carrying ADC members and directly confronting Amaechi's convoy.
Security personnel attached to the former minister engaged the assailants in a gun duel to ensure his safety and that of his team. No casualties were reported from the convoy incident, though the brazen attack underscores a disturbing pattern of political intimidation.
Amaechi, who leads the ADC in the South-South zone, described the acts as "cowardly and unacceptable" attempts to stifle democratic participation and party activities ahead of future electoral processes.
"I am deeply saddened by these evil acts of violence and arson targeted at innocent party members and our democratic structures," Amaechi stated. "These attacks will not deter us; instead, they will strengthen our resolve to build a more inclusive and peaceful political environment."
"I urge all ADC members and supporters to remain calm, law-abiding, and refrain from any form of retaliation. The responsibility to maintain peace and bring perpetrators to justice lies with security agencies."
He has called on the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), and other relevant security agencies to launch a swift, comprehensive, and impartial investigation into the incidents.
Amaechi demanded the immediate identification, arrest, and prosecution of those responsible for the arson at the ADC secretariat and the armed assault on his convoy, emphasizing that such acts of thuggery have no place in a democratic society.
"This is not just an attack on me or the ADC; it is an assault on the fundamental right of citizens to associate freely and participate in the political process without fear," he added. "We trust that the authorities will act decisively to restore confidence and protect lives and property."
Amaechi expressed gratitude to the security team that ensured his safety and commended ADC members for their restraint and commitment to non-violence.
The African Democratic Congress remains focused on its mission of providing a credible alternative for Nigerians and will continue its membership drive undeterred by these unfortunate events.