Amaechi targets ADC ticket amid showdown with Atiku

Former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi has expressed confidence in securing the 2027 presidential ticket of the African Democratic Congress ahead of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.

The development follows the submission of expression of interest and nomination forms by both political figures at the ADC national secretariat in Abuja, formally signaling the start of what is expected to be a highly competitive presidential primary race within the party.

Speaking during a meeting with party stakeholders and supporters, Amaechi said the 2027 election would be determined by political structure, leadership capacity, and grassroots mobilization rather than political longevity.

According to him, the ADC requires a candidate capable of building a strong national coalition and challenging the ruling All Progressives Congress in the next general election.

Amaechi stated that his campaign strategy is focused on youth engagement, institutional reforms, and grassroots political structures across the country.

The former Rivers State governor also stressed that the political climate in Nigeria is changing, with many voters seeking alternatives to established political figures and traditional power blocs.

The growing contest within the ADC has further strengthened the party’s position as a potential “third-force” platform ahead of the 2027 elections, attracting several influential opposition politicians.

Among those linked with the party’s broader opposition coalition are former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi and former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso.

Amaechi’s remarks also appear to counter recent speculation about possible consensus arrangements within the party to avoid a major internal contest.

For his part, Atiku has repeatedly maintained that the ADC presidential primary must remain open, transparent, and competitive, insisting that delegates should decide the party’s candidate through a credible process.

Political observers say the emergence of multiple high-profile aspirants could make the ADC primary one of the most closely watched opposition contests ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

With campaigns already gathering momentum, attention is now shifting to how the ADC leadership will manage competing ambitions within the party as preparations continue toward its national convention.