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Powerful Nigerian governor Rotimi Amaechi and four of his northern counterparts have been pelted with stones by opponents in his home state. Their convoy was attacked as it left the airport of Port Harcourt, the capital of his oil-rich Rivers state. The northern governors were visiting to show their support for Mr Amaechi. He was suspended from the ruling party for what analysts see as his opposition to President Goodluck Jonathan. The governors of Nigeria's 36 states are extremely influential and have large budgets at their disposal - and can help determine the outcome of national polls. Mr Jonathan, from the southern state of Bayelsa, which neighbours Rivers, is expected to stand for re-election in 2015 on the People's Democratic Party ticket. Analysts say it is imperative for him to have the support of Rivers, which is Nigeria's wealthiest state.