Former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, has publicly shut down swirling political rumours suggesting he could be a vice-presidential candidate alongside former Vice President Atiku Abubakar in the forthcoming 2027 general elections.
Speculation Triggered by Political Ally
The speculation gained traction following comments made by Atiku's associate and media entrepreneur, Dele Momodu. In a recent interview, Momodu suggested that Atiku might consider Amaechi as a potential running mate if the 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, decides not to join a joint ticket.
Momodu praised Amaechi's political influence, stating, "A lot of people are underrating Amaechi. Amaechi single-handedly handed power to Buhari." He compared Amaechi's governance in Rivers State to the current actions of the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, and credited Amaechi with mobilising more support for Muhammadu Buhari's presidential bid than even President Bola Tinubu.
"If Obi does not make up his mind or chooses to run alone, then I believe the mantle might fall on Rotimi Amaechi," Momodu had concluded.
Amaechi's Firm Rejection and Presidential Declaration
Reacting swiftly to these claims, Amaechi, through his media aide, David Iyofor, issued a strong and unambiguous denial. Iyofor insisted that Amaechi has no intention of being anyone's vice-presidential candidate.
"Amaechi is not seeking to be running mate to anybody. He does not intend to be a presidential running mate to anybody and will not," Iyofor stated emphatically.
He clarified Amaechi's sole political ambition: "For emphasis, Amaechi is running to be President of Nigeria and not to be a running mate to anybody." The statement also advised other politicians to keep Amaechi's name out of any discussions concerning a vice-presidential slot.
The Southern Agenda and ADC Platform
Iyofor further elaborated on the rationale behind Amaechi's decision, anchoring it on the principle of rotational presidency. He stated that Amaechi believes it is the turn of Southern Nigeria to produce the country's next president. This conviction is central to his current political pursuit.
In line with this, Amaechi, who contested for the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential ticket in 2023, defected to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) earlier this year. He has since formally declared his intention to seek the presidential nomination of the ADC for the 2027 election.
This move positions him squarely in the race for the nation's top job, setting the stage for his campaign based on regional equity and his own political record as a former governor and minister.
