Amaechi and Four Other Ministerial Nominees Finally Screened by Senate.

The former governor of Rivers State , Rotimi Amaechi on Thursday was finally screened as minister along with four other nominees; Professor Claudius Daramola, James Ocholi, SAN, Senator Heineken Lokpobiri and Baba Shehuri Mustapha.


Mr. Amaechi’s screening came after weeks of speculation that ongoing investigations into his corrupt practices in Rivers State would prevent his confirmation by the Senate. This was centred around his conduct when he was the governor of Rivers State and presently been reviewed by the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions.

After much tussle with words of who should or shouldn't question the Ministerial nominee, Senate President Bukola Saraki did put several questions to Mr. Amaechi addressing his conduct in public office. Mr. Amaechi responded to Senator Saraki’s questions by telling members of the Senate that he has a personal dislike for corruption and that he defected to the APC because the only “solution (to corruption) was to change the government.  And then, we presented a signpost candidate who is incorruptible.”

Mr. Amaechi noted that he was never indicted in the report by the Judicial Commission of Inquiry of Rivers State.  He went on to say, “I have never collected a bribe in my life.”

However the nominees were not confirmed as ministers before the Senate adjourned plenary to next Tuesday.