Atiku Taps Amaechi as Running Mate for 2027 ADC Presidential Bid

The African Democratic Congress has selected Rotimi Amaechi, former governor of Rivers State and ex-Minister of Transport, as the running mate for presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar in Nigeria's 2027 general election. The party announced the decision through its National Public Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, following internal deliberations among party leadership and stakeholders.

Party officials cited Amaechi's political experience and extensive network as key reasons for the selection. Amaechi previously served as Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly before his two-term tenure as governor, and later held the transport portfolio under the administration of the late President Muhammadu Buhari.

The ADC leadership viewed his background across legislative, executive, and federal governmental roles as complementary to Atiku's candidacy. Sources within the party indicated that choosing a running mate from the South-South geopolitical zone was deliberate, with strategists believing Amaechi's political connections and regional influence would strengthen the ticket's nationwide appeal.

The decision followed consideration of candidates from other zones, including the South-East and South-West regions. Party insiders noted that selecting from the South-East would have offered limited electoral advantage given Peter Obi's established influence in that region through another political movement.

Amaechi emerged as the vice-presidential candidate following the conclusion of the party's primary election, where Atiku defeated businessman Mohammmad Hayatu Deen to secure the presidential nomination. One report indicated that an official announcement of the running mate selection faced a brief delay due to Atiku's travel outside the country, though sources confirmed the decision had been finalized before the public disclosure.