2027: Amaechi declares for ADC presidential primary, vows not to step down

Former Rivers State governor and ex-Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, has reaffirmed his ambition to contest the 2027 presidential election on the platform of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

Amaechi made the declaration on Wednesday in Kano after a meeting with a coalition of traders. He insisted that he would not step down for any aspirant during 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.

The former governor stressed the need for internal democracy in ADC, noting that a transparent contest would strengthen the party ahead of the general election.

Amaechi also criticized the Bola Tinubu administration, saying Nigerians were dissatisfied with its policies and suffering under 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 alleged that the current administration had failed to ensure genuine inclusion, claiming that only a few individuals close to the President had been rewarded, leaving other regions discontented.

When asked about the possibility of zoning within ADC, the former governor said the decision rested with the party leadership but maintained that he would remain in the race regardless of the outcome.

Amaechi described himself as one of the most qualified contenders in the country. “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 said.

On suggestions that his political influence in Rivers had waned due to the rising profile of Federal Capital Territory 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 added.