2027 Presidency: “No Retreat, No Surrender” — Rotimi Amaechi declares

Former Governor of Rivers State and ex-Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, has officially thrown his hat into the ring for the 2027 presidential race, declaring his unwavering commitment to contest under the banner of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

Speaking to journalists in Kano on Wednesday after a closed-door meeting with a coalition of traders and grassroots leaders, Amaechi made it clear that he is in the race to win — and has no intention of stepping down for any contender within the party.

“I will contest the ADC presidential primary, and by God’s grace, I hope to win so that I can face Tinubu in 2027,” Amaechi stated defiantly.

“I am not stepping down for anyone. Let the people decide who they want to lead.”

Amaechi emphasized that the ADC must ensure a transparent and competitive primary process, insisting that every aspirant deserves a fair shot at the party’s presidential ticket. He described internal competition as essential for strengthening democratic values within the party.

“Every aspirant has the right to run. A competitive primary is good for our democracy. No anointing, no imposition. Let the delegates decide,” he said.

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The former minister did not mince words in his criticism of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, accusing it of presiding over a country mired in hardship and discontent.

According to Amaechi, the economic and social conditions across Nigeria have worsened, cutting across regional and ethnic lines.

“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. He tries to frame it as a North-South contest, but the truth is people are suffering everywhere,” Amaechi asserted.

His remarks come at a time when political alignments and early maneuverings for the 2027 general elections are beginning to take shape.

Amaechi’s open declaration signals a potential reshaping of the opposition landscape, with the ADC positioning itself as a platform for prominent figures disenchanted with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

While it remains to be seen how the ADC’s primary will unfold, Amaechi’s firm stance indicates he is prepared for a long political battle, setting the stage for what could be a heated presidential contest in 2027.