Rivers Women Berate Wike Over Allegations Against Amaechi’s Wife
A coalition of concerned women from Rivers State has strongly condemned former governor and current FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, over what they describe as “unfounded and disrespectful” allegations made against Dame Judith Amaechi, the wife of former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi.
The women, who gathered under various sociopolitical groups, including the Rivers Women for Justice and Concerned Niger Delta Mothers, held a press briefing in Port Harcourt on Saturday to address what they called a “campaign of smear and intimidation” targeted at the Amaechi family, particularly Dame Judith, who they say has maintained a record of public service and community development.
Spokesperson for the coalition, Dr. Obelema George described Wike’s comments as “petty and unbecoming of a man who once occupied the highest political office in the state.”
According to her, “Dragging the wife of a former governor into political quarrels is both unfair and a dangerous precedent. Women should not be collateral damage in the ego battles of male politicians.”
Though Wike’s exact allegations have not been officially detailed, recent comments attributed to him in local media reportedly accused Mrs. Amaechi of misusing public funds and being politically manipulative behind the scenes during her husband’s tenure as governor.
These claims have not been backed by evidence and have sparked public outrage, particularly among women’s rights advocates and supporters of the former first lady.
Dame Judith Amaechi, known for her work through the Empowerment Support Initiative (ESI), a non-governmental organization she founded during her husband’s administration, has long been praised for advocating girl-child education, maternal health, and women’s empowerment across Rivers State.
Supporters argue that her work speaks for itself and that the attacks on her are rooted in vendettas rather than fact.
Several women at the gathering called on the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory to desist from what they called “vindictive politics” and urged leaders to focus on governance and reconciliation rather than division.
“There is too much at stake in Rivers State and the country at large for political leaders to be chasing shadows and peddling unverified claims against those who have served with dignity,” said Chief (Mrs.) Caroline Worlu, a former commissioner in the state.
Political observers see this latest clash as another episode in the prolonged rivalry between Wike and Amaechi, two former allies turned fierce opponents whose feud has continued to shape political dynamics in Rivers State.
As of the time of this report, Dame Judith Amaechi has not issued a formal response to the allegations, but her supporters insist she remains unshaken and focused on her humanitarian work.
