President Bola Tinubu has expressed profound sorrow over the death of Dame Ezinne Mary Oduah Amaechi, the mother of former Rivers State governor and ex-transportation minister Rotimi Amaechi, who passed away at the age of 89. In a condolence message issued on Friday, July 17, 2026, Tinubu acknowledged the late matriarch's deep commitment to the Catholic faith and her role in raising children who served their country and communities.
Tinubu's Condolence Message
In a statement released by his spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu described Dame Amaechi's life as one shaped by love, sacrifice, kindness, and perseverance, noting that these qualities drew the affection of all who encountered her. He called on the bereaved family to draw comfort from the enduring legacy she left behind, rooted in faith, dignity, and public service. Tinubu extended his condolences to the government and people of Rivers State, as well as to the Catholic faithful.
Tinubu said: "My heartfelt condolences to Rt. Hon. Amaechi, the entire Amaechi family, the Catholic faithful, and the government and people of Rivers State over the loss of Dame Ezinne Amaechi, a champion of faith whose life was marked by humility and selfless service to humanity. May Almighty God grant her soul eternal rest and comfort all who mourn her passing at this difficult time."
Dame Amaechi's Legacy
Dame Amaechi's passing marks the loss of a figure widely regarded within her community for her exemplary devotion to family life and religious values. Tinubu's statement emphasized that her contributions to the Church and to society extended well beyond her immediate household, and that her dedication to raising children of service stood as a lasting testament to her character.
Rotimi Amaechi's Political Background
Rotimi Amaechi served as governor of Rivers State from 2007 to 2015 and later as minister of transportation under President Muhammadu Buhari from 2015 until he left the cabinet around 2022. He is currently a key chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), an opposition party in Nigeria, and is the party's vice presidential candidate for the 2027 general elections.
Despite being from different political parties—Tinubu is the national leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), while Amaechi is a strong opposition figure—the president's condolence message highlighted the late matriarch's universal values of faith and service.
Amaechi's Recent Political Statements
In related news, Amaechi recently warned that the ADC may find it difficult to convince many voters in southern Nigeria if it fields a northern presidential candidate ahead of the 2027 elections. He explained that the party must be strategic in picking its flagbearer, noting that zoning sentiments and the current power rotation arrangement could significantly shape voter behaviour, especially in the South.
