Former Rivers State Governor and prominent African Democratic Congress (ADC) figure, Rotimi Amaechi, has reaffirmed his determination to run for president in 2027, declaring that he will not bow out of the contest for any aspirant.
Speaking in Kano after a meeting with a coalition of traders, Amaechi—who was Nigeria’s Minister of Transportation between 2015 and 2022—said the party’s presidential primary must be transparent and competitive, stressing that he was prepared to go the distance.
In a conversation with the BBC Hausa Service monitored in Kaduna on Thursday, he declared:
“I will contest the ADC presidential primary, and by God’s grace, I intend to win so I can challenge Tinubu in 2027. I will not withdraw for anyone. The choice belongs to the people.”
Amaechi described open contestation within the party as vital for strengthening internal democracy.
On national issues, the former minister was critical of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, arguing that the mood of the country was one of discontent.
“Whether or not the government conducts free and fair elections, Nigerians have had enough. Across the country, people are suffering. This is not just about the North or the South; no region is spared,” he said.
He also accused the president of favouritism in appointments.
“Even within the Yoruba, many feel sidelined. He rewards a few allies while the majority remain forgotten,” Amaechi alleged.
When asked about the possibility of the ADC zoning its presidential ticket, Amaechi said he would respect whatever decision the party took.
“That is for the party to decide. I am only a member, but as far as I am concerned, I am in the race,” he insisted.
He further positioned himself as one of the most qualified candidates to lead the country.
“If you compare all the aspirants, including Tinubu, who is truly more prepared than I am? My candidacy offers unity across the South-East, South-West, South-South, and even the North,” he argued.
Addressing suggestions that his political relevance in Rivers State had waned due to the influence of his long-time rival and current FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, Amaechi dismissed the claims.
“When I went to Rivers recently to launch the ADC, the turnout was overwhelming—from the airport to the venue—without anyone being mobilised with money. That speaks volumes,” he maintained.
