2027: Why we picked Amaechi as Atiku’s running mate – ADC

The African Democratic Congress, ADC, has explained why it settled for former Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi, as running mate to Atiku Abubakar for the 2027 presidential election.

The party said Amaechi was chosen because of his political experience, national reach, South-South influence and record in public office.

In a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC said Amaechi’s selection followed extensive consultations with party leaders, coalition partners, youth and women stakeholders, as well as representatives of the six geopolitical zones.

The party noted that Amaechi emerged runner-up in its presidential primaries, saying his performance showed his acceptance among members across the country.

According to the ADC, the former Rivers governor brings to the ticket a strong record across the legislative and executive arms of government.

Amaechi served as Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly before becoming governor of the state for two terms.

He later served as Minister of Transportation, where the party said he led major rail and transport modernisation projects.

The ADC said his experience would be useful in supporting an Atiku-led administration from its first day in office.

“Rt. Hon. Amaechi strengthens the ticket strategically. His political influence across the South-South and wider Southern Nigeria, his reputation as a reform-minded administrator, and his proven ability to build coalitions across political, ethnic, and regional lines make him uniquely positioned to complement the candidacy of Atiku Abubakar,” the party said.

The party described the Atiku-Amaechi ticket as a national partnership that bridges regions, generations and political traditions.

It said both men have the experience needed to tackle Nigeria’s economic, security and governance challenges.

“At a time when millions of Nigerians are demanding competent leadership, economic revival, job creation, security, and national unity, the Atiku-Amaechi ticket sends a clear message: the ADC is prepared to govern, prepared to unite the nation, and prepared to deliver results,” the statement added.

The party called on its members, coalition partners, civil society groups, youth organisations, women leaders and Nigerians of goodwill to support the ticket ahead of the 2027 election.