A chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Chief Eze Chukwuemeka Eze, has described the passing of Dame Ezinne Mary Oduah Amaechi, mother of former Rivers State Governor and former Minister of Transportation, Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, as a moment that has united prominent Nigerians across political, religious and traditional divides.
In a statement issued on Monday, Eze said the overwhelming show of sympathy and solidarity from leaders across party lines reflects both the national respect Amaechi commands and the enduring legacy of his late mother.
According to him, the condolence visits and messages from President Bola Tinubu, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, former Kano State Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Bishop Matthew Kukah, former First Lady Aisha Buhari, Titi Abubakar, former Senate President David Mark, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, Senator Ali Ndume, former Attorney-General of the Federation Abubakar Malami, Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha and several other national figures demonstrated that humanity can transcend political differences.
Eze also praised the visit of His Imperial Majesty, Alayeluwa Oba (Dr.) Francis Adefarakanmi Agbede, Olowa of Igbara-Oke Kingdom and Director General of the South West Nigeria Council of Traditional Rulers, describing it as further evidence of Amaechi’s national acceptance.
He commended Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara for sending a condolence message in which he described Dame Mary Amaechi’s death as an irreparable loss to her family, the Catholic Church, Ubima community and Rivers State.
The ADC chieftain noted that President Tinubu, in his condolence message, described the deceased as a woman of deep Catholic faith, exemplary family values and unwavering commitment to raising children dedicated to public service.
He also referenced Atiku Abubakar’s tribute, in which the former Vice President described the late matriarch as a devoted Christian who lived a life of selfless service and was “a mother to all those who crossed her path.”
Eze further acknowledged the ADC leadership for paying tribute to Dame Mary Amaechi, describing her as a matriarch whose love, guidance and sacrifices shaped generations.
However, while applauding the widespread national solidarity, Eze expressed disappointment over what he described as the conspicuous absence of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, from the condolence visits and other expressions of sympathy.
He argued that death should transcend political disagreements, saying it was unfortunate that Wike did not identify with the Amaechi family despite, according to him, benefiting from the goodwill and support of the late Dame Mary Amaechi during his early political career.
“It is most unfortunate, insensitive and deeply disappointing that Nyesom Wike could not deem it necessary to identify with the Amaechi family at this difficult period,” Eze said, adding that compassion should never become a casualty of politics.
Describing the late Dame Mary Amaechi as a devoted Christian, loving mother and respected community leader, Eze said her legacy of humility, discipline, kindness and faith would continue to inspire generations.
He extended his condolences to Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, his wife Dame Judith Amaechi, their children and the entire Amaechi family, praying for God to grant them strength and comfort during the period of mourning.
