Former Minister of Transportation and ex-Governor of Rivers State, Rotimi Amaechi, has declared his intention to run in the 2027 presidential election under the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Speaking to journalists on Wednesday in Kano State after meeting with a coalition of traders, Amaechi affirmed his decision to contest the ADC’s presidential primary and ruled out the possibility of stepping down for any other aspirant.
“I will contest the ADC presidential primary, and by God’s grace, I hope to win so I can face Tinubu in 2027. I won’t step down for anyone. Let the people decide,” he said.
Amaechi emphasized the importance of internal democracy within the ADC and criticized the Bola Tinubu administration, stating that Nigerians are grappling with widespread hardship.
“Whether they plan credible elections or not, time is up. Nigerians are tired. No one is happy under Tinubu—not in Rivers, not in the South. People are suffering.”
He also alleged lopsided political appointments, claiming that only a select few close to the President had benefited from the administration.
On whether the ADC would implement zoning, Amaechi said the decision was up to the party leadership but insisted he would remain in the race regardless.
Calling himself one of the most qualified aspirants, he stated.
“Look at all those contesting including Tinubu who is better prepared than I am? I bring unity. I’m from the South, and we are not in conflict with any region.”
Amaechi dismissed reports that his influence in Rivers State had waned due to FCT Minister Nyesom Wike.
“When I launched the ADC in Rivers, the turnout was massive from the airport to the venue. No one paid for that. That speaks volumes.”