2027: I won’t step down for anyone during ADC presidential primary – Amaechi
By Jeffrey Agbo
Former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, has reiterated his intention to contest the 2027 presidential election on the platform of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Amaechi disclosed this on Wednesday in Kano while addressing journalists after meeting with a coalition of traders.
The ex-Rivers governor made it clear that he would not withdraw for any other aspirant in the party’s primary.
“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,” he said.
He emphasised the need for transparency in the party’s internal processes, insisting that open competition would strengthen the ADC.
Amaechi also criticised the Bola Tinubu-led administration, arguing that Nigerians were unhappy with its policies. According to him, hardship is widespread across the country.
“Whether the government wants to conduct credible elections or not, one thing is certain—time is up. Nigerians are tired because no one is happy under Tinubu, not even in Rivers or across the South. People are suffering everywhere,” he said.
Speaking on political appointments, Amaechi accused the government of sidelining genuine inclusion, claiming that only a few of the President’s close allies had benefitted.
When asked about the issue of zoning within the ADC, he said the decision would be left to party leaders but maintained he would remain in the race regardless.
He described himself as one of the most prepared aspirants in the country. “If you look at all those aspiring, including Tinubu, who is better prepared than I am? My candidacy offers unity because I come from the South, and we are not in conflict with any region,” he added.
Addressing suggestions that his political influence in Rivers had diminished due to the presence of FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, Amaechi dismissed such claims.
“Recently, when I visited Rivers to inaugurate the ADC, the turnout was massive from the airport to the venue, and nobody paid for that mobilisation. That should tell you where the people stand,” he said.
