Nigeria’s political landscape is heating up as Rotimi Amaechi, the former Minister of Transportation and ex-Governor of Rivers State, has vowed to contest the 2027 presidential election under the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Amaechi revealed his plans during an interaction with journalists in Kano State following a closed-door meeting with a coalition of traders. He made it clear that he would not withdraw for any aspirant.
“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 asserted.
In a strong criticism of the ruling government, Amaechi said Nigerians had become disillusioned with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. “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 added.
Amaechi emphasized that inclusivity was lacking in federal appointments, alleging that only the President’s loyalists had been favored.
On the controversial subject of zoning, he noted that the ADC’s leadership had the final say but maintained his determination to stay in the race.
Positioning himself as the most capable candidate, Amaechi remarked: “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.”
Addressing claims of his weakened base in Rivers State due to the influence of Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike, Amaechi disagreed, pointing to massive turnout during his recent ADC inauguration visit.