Former Minister of Transportation, Chibuike Amaechi, has publicly acknowledged the key figures who facilitated his ascension to the Rivers State governorship in 2007, amid ongoing political tensions with current Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike.
Speaking during an interview on Arise News, Amaechi attributed his governorship to "the grace of God, Dr. Peter Odili, the people of Rivers State, and the judiciary." This statement comes as the political rivalry between Amaechi and Wike continues to intensify.
"I had the opportunity and I utilised the opportunity," Amaechi said, reflecting on his political journey. "The problem is not when you get the opportunity, the problem is what you do with the opportunity."
Political Career Highlights
Amaechi served as Rivers State governor from 2007 to 2015, following his tenure as Speaker of the State House of Assembly from 1999 to 2007. During the interview, he highlighted his achievements as Speaker, claiming he was "one of the best Speakers in this country at that material time" and noting his election as Chairman of the Speakers Forum.
"By the grace of God and by the grace of Peter Odili, the people of Rivers State and the judiciary, I became Governor because at the end of the day, the judiciary pronounced me governor," Amaechi stated, referencing the legal battle that preceded his assumption of office.
Ongoing Rivalry With Wike
Amaechi's comments appear to be a response to recent statements made by Lere Olayinka, Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media to FCT Minister Nyesom Wike. Olayinka had challenged veteran journalist Reuben Abati's assertion that "Wike is very rude and disrespectful because Amaechi is his boss in politics."
Abati had claimed that Amaechi helped Wike become a local government chairman and subsequently Chief of Staff, before recommending him for the position of Minister of State for Education. Olayinka questioned this narrative, recalling how Wike allegedly stayed in Rivers State to help Amaechi retrieve his mandate after he "ran to Ghana in 2007."
The exchange highlights the complex and contentious relationship between the two prominent Rivers State politicians, whose rivalry has shaped the political landscape of the state for years.
Political observers note that this public acknowledgment by Amaechi of those who supported his rise to power comes at a time of heightened political tensions in Rivers State, with both men continuing to wield significant influence in Nigerian politics.
