Former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, has declared confidence in defeating former Vice President Atiku Abubakar for the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential ticket ahead of the 2027 general election. Speaking on his chances, Amaechi emphasized electability as the decisive factor, arguing that while Atiku has consistently won party primaries, he has failed to convert those victories into national success. “At all times that you have passed primary, you have not won an election. So it’s about electability,” Amaechi stated, adding that his own candidacy offers a fresh alternative since he has never contested a presidential election before. He criticized repeated presidential bids, suggesting that Atiku’s long history of unsuccessful attempts has weakened his appeal.
Amaechi also weighed in on broader political dynamics, praising Atiku and Peter Obi as potentially stronger leaders than President Bola Tinubu, whom he accused of tribalism, contrasting Tinubu’s approach with former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s nationalist stance. His remarks come as the ADC prepares for its presidential primary scheduled for May 25, 2026, where Amaechi, Atiku, and economist Mohammed Hayatu-Deen are expected to face off. The contest is intensifying amid internal divisions within the ADC, with multiple factions vying for control of the party structure.
Amaechi’s declaration underscores the growing tension within the opposition, as the ADC seeks to position itself as a viable alternative to the ruling APC. His confidence in defeating Atiku highlights a generational and strategic clash within the party, setting the stage for a heated primary that could reshape Nigeria’s political landscape ahead of 2027.
