Atiku celebrates Amaechi at 61, hails him as “brother, patriot” amid ADC primary dispute

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has celebrated former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi on his 61st birthday, describing him as a patriot and dependable ally amid the ongoing controversy surrounding the presidential primary of the African Democratic Congress.

In a message shared on his X account on Wednesday, Atiku praised Amaechi’s contributions to Rivers State and the nation, noting that his courage, conviction and years of public service remained a source of inspiration to many Nigerians.

“Happy Birthday to my brother and fellow patriot, H.E. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi. Your courage, conviction, and years of service to Rivers State and Nigeria continue to inspire many across the nation,” Atiku wrote.

He also prayed for continued good health, strength and more years of service for the former Rivers governor.

The goodwill message comes against the backdrop of the crisis trailing the ADC presidential primary election held on Tuesday.

Amaechi, one of the aspirants in the contest alongside Atiku and economist Mohammed Hayatu-Deen, rejected the outcome of the exercise, alleging widespread irregularities and voter disenfranchisement across the country.

In a statement posted on his verified X handle, Amaechi described the results announced from the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory as “concocted.”

According to him, the process failed to meet the standards of fairness and transparency earlier promised by the party.

He maintained that a large number of party members were allegedly prevented from participating in the primary, insisting that the exercise could not be accepted under such circumstances.

Amaechi further argued that the ADC, which positioned itself as an alternative platform for Nigerians, must not engage in the same electoral misconduct it often accuses the ruling All Progressives Congress and the Independent National Electoral Commission of perpetrating.

The former minister warned that practices such as vote-buying, result manipulation and voter suppression could damage the credibility of the party.

His position came shortly after Hayatu-Deen also distanced himself from the process, boycotting the final collation and declaration ceremony in Abuja over alleged irregularities.

Meanwhile, Atiku also extended birthday wishes to former Osun State governor and ADC National Secretary Rauf Aregbesola on his 69th birthday.

The former vice president commended Aregbesola for his commitment to progressive ideals and democratic development in Nigeria, describing his experience and leadership as crucial at a critical period in the nation’s political journey.

“Today, I celebrate my friend and compatriot, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, @raufaregbesola, as he marks his 69th birthday,” he wrote

Rauf Aregbesola, ADC National Secretary

“Your years of service to our nation, your steadfast commitment to progressive ideals, and your dedication to strengthening democratic values continue to inspire many across Nigeria.

“As National Secretary of the ADC, your experience, courage, and sense of duty remain invaluable at this critical moment in our nation’s history. I wish you continued good health, wisdom, and strength in the years ahead.”