2027: Why we pick Amaechi as Atiku’s Running Mate – ADC
Politics
Abuja, Nigeria – The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has formally selected former Rivers State Governor and ex-Minister of Transportation, Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, as the vice-presidential candidate to pair with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar for the 2027 presidential election.
The party’s National Leadership announced the decision following extensive consultations with party leaders, coalition partners, youth and women groups, and stakeholders across all geopolitical zones.
Amaechi, who finished as runner-up in the recently concluded ADC presidential primaries, brings significant strategic value to the ticket.
Party officials highlighted Amaechi’s strong political influence across the South-South and wider Southern Nigeria as a key factor in his selection. His reputation as a reform-minded administrator, coupled with his proven ability to build coalitions across political, ethnic, and regional lines, positions him uniquely to complement Atiku Abubakar’s candidacy and broaden the ticket’s national appeal.
“This partnership represents more than a political alliance; it is the coming together of two tested statesmen,” the ADC statement noted, adding “Amaechi’s depth of experience across legislative and executive roles, combined with his southern reach and coalition-building skills, will help unify the country and deliver the change Nigerians demand.”
Amaechi’s public service record spans multiple levels of governance. He served as Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, two terms as Governor of Rivers State where he drove major infrastructure, education, and healthcare projects and later as Minister of Transportation, overseeing ambitious rail modernisation initiatives.
Analysts view the Atiku-Amaechi ticket as a deliberate “unity ticket” that bridges North and South, Muslim and Christian demographics, and different political traditions as it aims to present a credible alternative focused on economic revival, job creation, security, and national cohesion at a time when many Nigerians seek competent leadership.
The ADC expressed confidence that the pairing will energise its growing coalition and inspire hope, even as the party called on members, partners, civil society, and Nigerians of goodwill to rally behind the ticket as it prepares for the January 2027 poll.
Signed by Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, National Publicity Secretary, the statement underscores the party’s readiness to rescue and reposition Nigeria for prosperity and inclusive development.
This development comes shortly after Atiku’s victory in the ADC primaries and subsequent reconciliation efforts with Amaechi, marking a significant step in consolidating opposition forces ahead of the election.
