The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has picked former Rivers State Governor and ex-Minister of Transportation, Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, as the running mate to its presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, for the 2027 general election.
The announcement was made on Monday by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi.
Amaechi Emerges as Running Mate
According to the statement, the decision followed extensive consultations with party leaders, coalition partners, youth and women groups, and representatives from all geopolitical zones. Amaechi had emerged as the runner-up in the ADC presidential primaries, where he earned significant support across the federation.
The party described the Atiku-Amaechi ticket as a strong combination of two experienced leaders with the capacity to address Nigeria’s current challenges and offer credible governance.
Amaechi’s political resume includes serving as Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, two terms as Governor of Rivers State, and Minister of Transportation under the Buhari administration. The party highlighted his experience across legislative and executive roles as a major asset to the ticket.
Strategic Value of the Partnership
The ADC said Amaechi’s selection strengthens the ticket’s appeal, particularly in the South-South and across Southern Nigeria. His reputation as a reform-minded administrator and his ability to build coalitions across ethnic and regional lines were cited as key reasons for the choice.
The statement noted that the partnership represents more than a political alliance. It brings together tested statesmen with national reach and leadership experience needed to rescue the country from its present difficulties and reposition it for prosperity, security, and inclusive development.
The party called on all members, coalition partners, civil society organisations, youth groups, and well-meaning Nigerians to support the ticket as it prepares for the 2027 elections.
Background and Reactions
Amaechi had earlier distanced himself from the idea of being a running mate during the primaries, famously stating in interviews that he did not buy the presidential form to become a vice president. He had also publicly described Atiku as “unelectable.”
The new development has sparked mixed reactions online, with some questioning the sudden partnership while others see it as a pragmatic move by the opposition to present a formidable ticket.
The ADC leadership, however, expressed confidence that the Atiku-Amaechi combination will energise their growing coalition and offer Nigerians a credible alternative ahead of the 2027 polls.
The announcement marks another major step in the opposition’s realignment as the country inches closer to the next general election.
