Amaechi Declares 2027 Presidential Ambition Amid ADC Power Struggle

Amaechi Declares 2027 Presidential Ambition Amid ADC Power Struggle

Former Rivers State Governor and ex-Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, has reaffirmed his intention to contest the 2027 presidential election under the African Democratic Congress (ADC), joining a growing list of high-profile aspirants within the party.

Speaking to journalists in Kano State after meeting with a coalition of traders, Amaechi made it clear he would not step down for any contender in the party’s primary.

“I will contest the ADC presidential primary, and by God’s grace, I hope to win so that I can face Tinubu in 2027. I am not stepping down for anyone. Let the people decide who they want to lead,” he said.

Amaechi’s declaration comes amid an intensifying internal contest within the ADC, where three political heavyweights, Amaechi, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, and former Labour Party candidate Peter Obi—are jostling for the party’s presidential ticket.

While Amaechi has publicly confirmed his candidacy and pledged to serve only a single term if elected, Atiku Abubakar remains a prominent figure in coalition discussions, despite not formally declaring his ambition. Peter Obi, on the other hand, has stated unequivocally that he will run for president and will not accept a vice-presidential role under Atiku.

The rivalry has sparked factional divisions within the ADC-led coalition, with supporters of each aspirant engaging in heated debates across social media and party platforms.

Amaechi emphasized the need for internal democracy within the ADC, arguing that an open and transparent primary would strengthen the party’s credibility. He also criticized the Bola Tinubu administration, citing widespread dissatisfaction and economic hardship.

“Whether the government wants to conduct credible elections or not, one thing is certain—time is up. Nigerians are tired because no one is happy under Tinubu, not even in Rivers or across the South. People are suffering everywhere,” he said.

On political appointments, Amaechi accused the current government of excluding broad regional representation, claiming that only a few individuals close to the President had been rewarded.

When asked about zoning within the ADC, he deferred to the party leadership but maintained his commitment to remain in the race regardless of the outcome.

“If you look at all those aspiring, including Tinubu, who is better prepared than I am? My candidacy offers unity because I come from the South, and we are not in conflict with any region,” he added.

Addressing speculation that his political influence in Rivers State had diminished due to the rise of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, Amaechi dismissed the claims.

“Recently, when I visited Rivers to inaugurate the ADC, the turnout was massive from the airport to the venue, and nobody paid for that mobilisation. That should tell you where the people stand,” he said.

As the ADC prepares for what may be its most competitive primary yet, all eyes are on how the party will navigate the ambitions of its leading contenders, and whether it can maintain unity in the face of growing internal tensions.