Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar's political faction within the African Democratic Congress has initiated a crucial search for a southern running mate ahead of the 2027 presidential election, with two prominent names emerging as top contenders.
Top Contenders for Vice Presidential Slot
According to sources familiar with the developments, Atiku's bloc is seriously considering Labour Party's 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi as the primary choice for the vice presidential position. The move signals a potential reunification of political forces that previously contested together under the Peoples Democratic Party banner.
Should Obi decline the offer, the former Vice President has identified former Rivers State governor Rotimi Amaechi as a viable alternative. Both politicians bring significant political weight and regional balance to what could become a formidable opposition ticket against President Bola Tinubu's anticipated re-election campaign.
Political Allies Urge Swift Decision
Atiku's close associate, Dele Momodu, has publicly advocated for the Atiku-Obi alliance, describing it as the strongest possible opposition combination against the ruling All Progressives Congress. Momodu emphasized the urgency of the decision, warning that delays could weaken opposition efforts and effectively benefit President Tinubu's re-election prospects.
"If Peter Obi does not take advantage of a ready-made union between him and Atiku, it would be very unfortunate," Momodu stated during a recent media engagement. "It would be as good as working for Tinubu to come back."
Obi Camp Maintains Presidential Ambition
Meanwhile, the Obidient Movement has reaffirmed Peter Obi's determination to contest the presidency in 2027. Yunusa Tanko, National Coordinator of the movement and Obi's spokesman, called for clarity from Atiku's camp regarding their expectations from the former Anambra State governor.
Tanko suggested that a joint ticket with Atiku might not be feasible, insisting that a strong southern candidate remains the optimal path to defeating President Tinubu. He highlighted Obi's commitment to serving a single term if elected, arguing that this aligns with the need to complete the southern presidency rotation.
"To secure Nigeria, we need a capable leader who has the ability to fix things," Tanko asserted. "Obi has these qualities. We must understand that the Presidency is already in the South. We need to give support to Mr Peter Obi to complete the four years of the South."
Amaechi's Political Calculations
Sources within Amaechi's camp indicate that the former Transportation Minister is primarily focused on securing the ADC presidential ticket himself. While not completely dismissing the possibility of a vice presidential nomination, Amaechi's aides describe such discussions as premature.
One anonymous ally noted that accepting Atiku's running mate position might not be a bad strategic move, suggesting that pre-primary agreements could prevent post-primary conflicts. However, Amaechi's media office has maintained official silence on the matter, declining to comment when contacted by journalists.
The political landscape continues to evolve as Atiku formally completed his registration with the African Democratic Congress on Monday, November 24, at Ward 1 in Jada Local Government Area of Adamawa state. This move, described as one of the most consequential political developments since the 2023 general elections, sets the stage for intensified opposition negotiations in the coming months.
