2027: Atiku Weighs Amaechi, Dele Momodu as Running Mate Amid Intensified Political Consultations

Former Vice President and presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) for the 2027 general election, Atiku Abubakar, has reportedly stepped up consultations within his political camp as discussions over the choice of a running mate gather momentum.

With preparations for the 2027 presidential election gradually taking shape and political parties expected to begin formal processes ahead of submissions to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), sources familiar with developments say the former vice president is carefully evaluating potential candidates capable of strengthening his ticket against incumbent President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The latest development comes shortly after Atiku hosted former Rivers State Governor and fellow ADC presidential aspirant, Rotimi Amaechi, at a private meeting in Abuja.

The meeting has generated speculation within political circles, particularly because Amaechi was among the leading contenders who challenged Atiku during the party’s presidential primary election.

Although details of their discussions were not made public, political observers believe the engagement may be connected to ongoing negotiations over possible alliances ahead of the 2027 presidential contest.

Amaechi Emerges as Strong Contender

According to sources close to the discussions, Atiku is said to hold Amaechi in high regard and views him as one of the strongest political figures capable of boosting the ADC’s electoral prospects nationwide.

A source familiar with the consultations disclosed that Amaechi’s political influence, particularly in the South-South region and across key states, has made him an attractive option for the vice-presidential slot.

The source noted that Atiku’s impressive performance in several southern states during the ADC presidential primary may have further reinforced the belief that a joint ticket featuring both politicians could significantly challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 election.

“These conversations are naturally taking place behind closed doors, but there is no doubt that Amaechi remains one of the most influential political figures being considered. His visibility, political experience and electoral value are factors that cannot be ignored,” the source said.

According to insiders, Atiku may only consider alternative options if Amaechi declines any offer to join the ticket.

Political strategists within the ADC reportedly believe that combining Atiku’s northern political base with Amaechi’s influence in the South-South could create a formidable opposition platform capable of attracting support across multiple regions.

Dele Momodu Also Under Consideration

Aside from Amaechi, another name reportedly gaining attention within Atiku’s camp is veteran journalist, publisher and politician, Dele Momodu.

Sources indicated that a faction within the former vice president’s political structure is advocating for Momodu as a possible running mate, citing his loyalty, communication skills and broad national appeal.

According to the source, supporters of the proposal believe Momodu would provide a different dynamic to the campaign and could help connect with younger voters, professionals and urban political audiences.

The source further claimed that some members of Atiku’s camp view Momodu as a dependable ally who would focus on advancing the administration’s agenda if elected, rather than becoming entangled in internal political rivalries.

“Some strategists believe that Momodu would be a loyal and committed partner. They see him as someone who would remain focused on governance and national development rather than political power struggles,” the source explained.

Momodu’s Social Media Post Fuels Speculation

Adding to the speculation, Momodu recently shared a post on social media that many interpreted as a subtle indication of ongoing political conversations within the ADC.

In the post, he described the 2027 presidential race as a likely showdown between President Bola Tinubu and Atiku Abubakar, whom he referred to as major political heavyweights.

Momodu also suggested that the ADC must embrace a new political approach by combining experienced politicians with technocrats and younger leaders capable of driving national transformation.

He argued that Nigeria’s evolving political landscape requires a coalition that bridges generational, ideological and regional divides.

“The 2027 presidential election is shaping up to be a major contest. It is important for our party to build a platform that connects the old with the new, experienced politicians with technocrats, and traditional structures with modern governance ideas,” he wrote.

Although Momodu did not directly address reports linking him to the vice-presidential slot, the timing of the post has further intensified public debate over possible configurations for the ADC ticket.

Opposition Realignments Gather Pace

The renewed consultations underscore the growing political realignments taking place ahead of the 2027 elections as opposition parties seek strategies to challenge the ruling APC.

Atiku’s recent meetings with key political figures, including Amaechi, have been interpreted by analysts as part of broader efforts to build a coalition capable of mounting a strong challenge against President Tinubu’s re-election bid.

While no official decision has been announced regarding the vice-presidential position, political observers expect consultations to continue in the coming weeks as the ADC leadership works toward finalising its presidential ticket.

For now, attention remains focused on whether Atiku will ultimately settle for a seasoned political heavyweight like Amaechi or opt for a less conventional choice such as Dele Momodu as he prepares for what is expected to be one of Nigeria’s most closely watched presidential elections.