The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has visited the African Democratic Congress (ADC) vice presidential candidate and former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, to personally condole with him and his family following the death of his mother, Dame Ezinne Mary Oduah Amaechi.
Obi visited Amaechi and his wife, Dame Judith Amaechi, despite both politicians now flying the flags of different opposition parties ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Photos from the visit showed Obi with the bereaved family after the passing of the 89-year-old matriarch.
The visit came a day after Obi expressed sorrow over the death of Amaechi’s mother in a condolence message shared on his X account.
The NDC presidential candidate described the loss of a mother as a deeply painful experience and prayed for God to grant the former minister and his family the strength to bear the loss.
Obi wrote, “My Condolences to Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi on the Passing of His Mother.
“My dear brother, I was saddened to hear of the passing of your beloved mother. Losing a parent, especially a matriarch who contributed so much to her family and community is a profound loss that words can scarcely comfort.
“On behalf of my family, I extend our deepest condolences to you, the entire Amaechi family, and all who are mourning this monumental loss.
“May God Almighty grant her eternal rest, and may He give you and your loved ones the strength, fortitude, and peace to bear this irreparable loss.
“Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. With my highest regards and deepest sympathy.”
Dame Ezinne Mary Oduah Amaechi died at the age of 89. Her death was announced on Thursday by Amaechi’s media office, which described her as a beloved matriarch who held her family together through love, peace and unity.
Obi’s visit comes at a time when both leaders are on different political paths. Obi is the presidential flagbearer of the NDC for the 2027 election, with former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso as his running mate. Amaechi, on the other hand, remains in the African Democratic Congress (ADC), where he was chosen as the vice presidential candidate to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.
POLITICS NIGERIA recalls that President Bola Tinubu also joined other prominent Nigerians in mourning the late matriarch. In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President described Dame Mary Amaechi as a woman of deep faith whose life was devoted to her family, service to others and humanity.
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.”
The President further urged the Amaechi family to find comfort in the enduring legacy of faith, dignity and service left behind by Dame Mary Amaechi, noting that her impact would continue to be remembered by her family, the Catholic Church and the society.
