Amaechi Calls for Southern Presidential Candidate in ADC for 2027 Elections
Rotimi Amaechi, the former Minister of Transportation and ex-governor of Rivers State, has publicly urged the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to strongly consider nominating a southerner as its presidential candidate for the upcoming 2027 general elections. Speaking during a recent engagement in Kano, Amaechi emphasized that the party must meticulously evaluate three critical factors when selecting its flagbearer: competence, age, and what he termed the existing balance of power within the nation.
Key Factors for Candidate Selection
Amaechi articulated that the ADC requires a candidate capable of garnering widespread support, particularly across the southern regions of Nigeria. He stated, "I will support whoever emerges. But I also advise the ADC to look around and identify the best material [aspirant] that can convince Nigerians that things will be turned around." He elaborated on the three pivotal criteria: first is capacity, second is age, and the third, which is the last point, is to respect the unwritten law of power [rotation], which is the [turn] of the south.
The former governor argued that the southern part of the country should be permitted to complete what he described as its eight-year tenure before political power reverts to the north. According to Amaechi, adhering to this informal rotation principle would significantly alleviate political tensions and encourage broader participation from southern aspirants, thereby strengthening democratic processes.
Potential Risks of a Northern Candidate
Amaechi issued a cautionary note, warning that presenting a northern candidate at a time when many southerners believe power should remain in the south could substantially weaken the ADC's appeal and electoral prospects in that region. He explained, "If you elect somebody from the north, I'm not saying we won't campaign [for the candidate], but it will be difficult to convince the south to give up power." This statement underscores the strategic importance of regional considerations in Nigeria's complex political landscape.
Commitment to Party Unity and Previous Statements
Despite his clear preference for a southern candidate, Amaechi reiterated his unwavering commitment to support whoever ultimately wins the party's presidential primary, irrespective of their regional origin. He affirmed, "Whether it is a southerner or a northerner is immaterial; I will support whoever emerges at the primary." This declaration highlights his dedication to party unity and democratic principles within the ADC.
In a related development from July 2025, Amaechi had previously stated that he would be willing to serve only a single term if he secures the ADC presidential ticket and wins the 2027 election. He pledged to step down after four years to facilitate power rotation to the north, emphasizing that such a move would be in the interest of national stability and cohesion. This earlier position aligns with his current advocacy for rotational presidency, reinforcing his consistent stance on the matter.
The ADC, as a political party, now faces a crucial decision-making process as it prepares for the 2027 elections, with Amaechi's advice likely to influence internal discussions and candidate selection strategies. His insights reflect broader national conversations about equity, representation, and effective governance in Nigeria's evolving democracy.
