Youth leaders of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) across the 17 local government areas of Enugu state have declared their support for former Rivers state governor Rotimi Amaechi ahead of the party's 2027 presidential primary election. The group made their position known on Saturday, May 23, during a press conference in Enugu.
The youth leaders also distanced themselves from comments reportedly made by the Enugu state chairman of the party, which suggested that ADC members in the state were backing former Vice President Atiku Abubakar for the presidency. They insisted that the chairman's statement did not reflect the views of the majority of young party members in Enugu State.
Youth Leaders Speak on Equity and Fairness
Speaking at the press conference, the youth leaders, led by Festus Ifesinachi Omeh, said they believed the presidency should remain in southern Nigeria in 2027 in the interest of equity, fairness, and justice. They argued that allowing power to remain in the South beyond the current administration would help maintain national balance and unity.
"We wish to state clearly and unequivocally that the chairman's statement does not represent the position, mood, or wishes of the majority of ADC members and youths in Enugu state," Omeh said. The group emphasized that the informal rotation of the presidency between the North and South is a practice that helps manage the country's regional and ethnic diversity.
Endorsement of Rotimi Amaechi
The youth leaders said they were backing Amaechi because he is the only southern aspirant who has officially declared interest in contesting the ADC presidential ticket. They described him as a candidate who represents courage, competence, fairness, and national balance.
"We want to make it abundantly clear that ADC youths in Enugu state will not support or vote for Atiku Abubakar," Omeh declared. The group also warned against attempts to manipulate the outcome of internal party processes ahead of the presidential primary scheduled for May 25.
Call for Transparency Within ADC
The youth leaders called on the National Executive Council of the African Democratic Congress to closely monitor developments in Enugu state to ensure transparency and fairness within the party. They urged the party leadership to prevent actions capable of creating tension among members ahead of the primary election.
Meanwhile, Amaechi has expressed confidence in securing the ADC presidential ticket ahead of the 2027 general elections. He questioned Atiku's long-term electoral strength, arguing that Atiku's repeated success in party primaries has not translated into presidential victory. Speaking during an interview on Trust TV, Amaechi expressed doubts about Atiku's chances going forward.
