The International Society for Social Justice and Human Rights (ISSJHR) has expressed concern over the reported attack on former Rivers State Governor and ex-Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Chibuike Amaechi, in his hometown of Ubima.

The organisation described the incident as a threat to democratic values, civility and the rule of law, warning that rising political violence in the state could undermine peace and stability if not urgently addressed.

Recall that on Friday, gunmen allegedly burnt and destroyed the Secretariat of African Democratic Congress (ADC) located in Chibuike ‘s village, Ubima and also moved assaulted his convoy before security agencies foiled the attack.

In a statement, the group said the incident went beyond an assault on a political figure and raised concerns about the safety of citizens and the growing culture of impunity in the state.

ISSJHR noted that political violence in Rivers State had worsened over the years, alleging that the failure to decisively address earlier incidents had emboldened perpetrators.

The organisation recalled that during the build-up to previous governorship elections in the state, over 90 persons were reportedly killed in politically related violence, adding that there had been little evidence of arrests or successful prosecution of those responsible.

It warned that no harm must befall Amaechi or any other citizen in the state, stressing that the protection of lives and property remains a constitutional responsibility of government and security agencies.

The group also referenced the killing of Chief Adube and members of his family, describing the incident as another disturbing example of violence that has yet to result in visible arrests or prosecution.

According to the organisation, the situation raises fundamental questions about citizens’ rights in a democratic society.

It cited provisions of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), noting that Section 14(2)(b) states that the security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government.

The group also referenced Section 33(1), which guarantees the right to life; Section 34(1), which guarantees the dignity of the human person; and Section 41(1), which provides for freedom of movement for every Nigerian citizen.

ISSJHR added that the Electoral Act 2022 criminalises political violence and intimidation. It specifically cited Section 92 of the Act, which prohibits the use of violence, threats or intimidation during political activities and elections.

The organisation further noted that the Nigeria Police Act 2020 mandates law enforcement agencies to prevent crime, protect lives and property, and enforce the law without bias.

The group expressed concern that political thuggery appeared to be becoming entrenched among some youths in the state, warning that the trend could discourage economic activities and drive corporate organisations away from Rivers State.

It also alleged that violence in the political space had increasingly affected various segments of society, including political actors and ordinary citizens.

Chancellor of the organisation, Dr Omenazu Jackson, warned that if the trend continued unchecked, the state could face serious threats to democratic governance.

“If a former governor cannot safely visit his hometown, then the safety of ordinary citizens is in serious doubt,” he said.

The organisation, therefore, called on security agencies to immediately investigate the reported attack and ensure that those responsible are identified and prosecuted.

It also urged Nigerians to collectively reject political violence and intimidation, warning that failure to address the situation could further threaten peace and stability in the country.