By John Umeh
Former Minister of Transportation and chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Mr. Rotimi Amaechi, has reaffirmed his determination to contest the presidency in 2027, dismissing any suggestion that he might step aside.
Speaking with journalists in Kano after a meeting with a coalition of traders, the former Rivers State governor stressed that his ambition remains firm.
In a separate interview with the BBC Hausa Service, monitored in Kaduna, Amaechi was emphatic:
“I will contest the ADC presidential primary, and by God’s grace, I hope to win so that I can face Tinubu in 2027. I am not stepping down for anyone. Let the people decide who they want to lead.”
‘A Healthy Contest Strengthens Democracy’
Amaechi maintained that every aspirant within the ADC had the right to seek the party’s presidential ticket, describing the internal competition as healthy for democracy and the future of the party.
On the state of the country under President Bola Tinubu, Amaechi painted a grim picture.
“Whether the government wants to conduct credible elections or not, one thing is clear: time is up. Nigerians are tired. No one is happy under Tinubu—not in Rivers, not in the South, not even in the North. The attempt to frame it as a North-South contest is false; the suffering cuts across everywhere.”
Criticism of Tinubu’s Appointments
The former minister also took aim at Tinubu’s leadership style, particularly his appointments, which he described as narrow and exclusionary.
“Even among the Yoruba, many feel left out. Tinubu rewards only a few individuals close to him, while the majority remain neglected,” Amaechi said.
On Party Zoning and ADC’s Position
When asked if the ADC might zone its presidential ticket to the South, as is common in the APC and PDP, Amaechi said that decision rests with the party leadership.
“That is for the party to decide. Whatever the decision, I will abide by it. But as far as I am concerned, I am in the race,” he stated.
‘I Am the Most Prepared Candidate’
Amaechi argued that his record and experience make him one of the most qualified aspirants in the country.
“If you look at all those aspiring, including Tinubu, who is better prepared than I am? My candidacy offers unity. I am from the South, but we are not in conflict with the South-East, the South-West, or even the North.”
He pointed to the massive turnout during his recent visit to Rivers State for the inauguration of the ADC, stressing that the support was organic and not financially induced.
“The crowds from the airport to the venue were overwhelming, and not a single kobo was spent on mobilisation. That should tell you where the people stand,” he concluded.
