Former Rivers State Governor and ex-Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, has dismissed suggestions that he could emerge as running mate to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar ahead of the 2027 elections, insisting he remains fully in the race for the presidential ticket of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Amaechi, Atiku and businessman Hayatudeen Muhammed are currently contesting for the ADC presidential ticket after the reported withdrawal of Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso from the party’s presidential race.
Speaking on the contest, Amaechi said discussions around consensus arrangements were premature, noting that party leaders had not held any meeting on the matter. He also firmly ruled out accepting a vice-presidential slot, saying he purchased the nomination form to contest for president.
The former Rivers governor argued that Nigeria requires experienced but energetic leadership to tackle its current economic and governance challenges, citing his experience as Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, former Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and ex-Minister of Transportation as evidence of his preparedness for office.
Amaechi also reiterated support for zoning, saying power rotation remains important to ensure national inclusion and give all regions a sense of belonging. His position contrasts with Atiku’s view that competence should take precedence over regional considerations in selecting a president.
He further accused the current administration of weakening institutions and allegedly targeting opposition parties ahead of the 2027 elections, though he maintained he still held President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in high regard despite disagreements over governance.
Meanwhile, Peter Obi appeared before the presidential screening committee of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in Abuja as the sole aspirant for the party’s presidential ticket. Obi, accompanied by Senator Victor Umeh, submitted his nomination documents before the screening panel chaired by former governor Sam Egwu.
The NDC leadership also warned members to prepare for an intense political contest ahead of 2027, describing the coming elections as a major battle requiring commitment and organisation.
