Former Minister of Transportation and two-term Governor of Rivers State, Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, has stated that no individual “made” him governor, crediting his political ascension to God, former Governor Dr. Peter Odili, and the Nigerian judiciary.
![](https://thenigerialawyer.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/2026-IDRI-Masterclass.png")
Speaking during a reflective interview on ARISE TV’s Prime Time to mark his 60th birthday on May 31, 2025, Amaechi dismissed suggestions that any person was solely responsible for his emergence as governor. “Nobody made me governor. God, Dr. Peter Odili, and the Nigerian judiciary,” he declared, referencing the 2007 Supreme Court ruling that affirmed him as the rightful PDP candidate for the governorship of Rivers State.
Despite previous tensions, Amaechi expressed deep appreciation to Dr. Odili and his wife for their early support, adding, “God used him. So you must respect God by respecting them.” He also refused to publicly criticize the Odilis, even as he alluded to past grievances.
Reflecting on his career, Amaechi took pride in his record as Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly (1999–2007), Governor (2007–2015), and Minister (2015–2022). He highlighted signature projects such as flyovers, modern schools, and free education programs that drastically improved learning conditions. He expressed disappointment over the abandonment of several legacy projects, including a sports village and specialized hospitals.
On his ministerial achievements, Amaechi cited the successful completion of the Lagos-Ibadan railway, the Kaduna-Abuja railway, and the Lekki Deep Sea Port. He also mentioned mandating private investors to build free schools near the Kano inland dry port.
Amaechi voiced strong criticism of Nigeria’s current electoral system, drawing a contrast with the Option A4 system under General Babangida. He accused the current INEC Chairman of bias, saying, “The current chairman of INEC has taken sides and is no longer the umpire,” and questioned the motives behind recent electoral reform proposals.
He praised former INEC Chairman Prof. Attahiru Jega for the credible 2015 elections and warned that electoral integrity was being eroded.
Amaechi also used the interview to declare his current political neutrality. “I’ll neither work for the APC nor for the PDP,” he stated, distancing himself from both parties and clarifying that he is not the leader of any emerging opposition alliance. While opposition figures attended a symposium in his honor, he emphasized that it was organized by others and not politically motivated.
On a personal note, Amaechi spoke about his commitment to preserving his family’s name and values. He revealed that his son once advised him against taking actions that could damage their family’s reputation. On cultural identity, he reaffirmed his Ikwerre roots but acknowledged past expressions of solidarity with the Igbo during periods of political marginalization.
[A MUST HAVE] Evidence Act Demystified With Recent And Contemporary Cases And Materials
Available now for NGN 40,000 at ASC Publications, 10, Boyle Street, Onikan, Lagos. Beside High Court, TBS. Email publications@ayindesanni.com or WhatsApp +2347056667384. Purchase Link: https://paystack.com/buy/evidence-act-complete-annotation
______________________________________________________________________ “Enhance Legal Practice With Authoritative Reports” — Alexander Payne Offers Comprehensive Law Reports, Spanning Over A Century Of Nigerian Jurisprudence
Interested buyers are encouraged to place their orders and enquiries via:
0704 444 4777, 0704 444 4999, 0818 199 9888
Website: www.alexandernigeria.com
