ADC picks Amaechi as Atiku’s running mate for 2027 presidential election
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has named former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, as the running mate to its presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, for the 2027 general election.
The announcement was made on Monday by the party’s spokesperson, Bolaji Abdullahi, putting an end to weeks of speculation over Atiku’s vice-presidential choice.
Atiku emerged as the ADC presidential candidate during the party’s primary election held in May, securing 1,846,370 votes to defeat Amaechi, who polled 504,117 votes. Former Managing Director of the defunct FSB International Bank, Mohammed Hayatu-Deen, came third with 177,120 votes.
According to Abdullahi, Amaechi’s selection followed extensive consultations with party leaders, coalition partners, youth and women groups, as well as representatives from the country’s geopolitical zones.
He described Amaechi as one of Nigeria’s most experienced political figures with broad support across the federation.
“The Atiku-Amaechi partnership represents more than a political alliance. It brings together two experienced statesmen with the leadership capacity, national reach, and governance experience needed to address Nigeria’s challenges and reposition the country for growth and stability,” the statement read.
Abdullahi highlighted Amaechi’s extensive record in public service, noting that he has served in both the legislative and executive arms of government.
He added that Amaechi’s political influence in the South-South and across Southern Nigeria, coupled with his reputation as a reform-oriented administrator and coalition builder, makes him a strategic complement to Atiku’s candidacy.
According to the ADC spokesperson, the ticket reflects a national outlook that cuts across regions, generations, and political traditions.
He said the party believes the combined experience of both candidates in governance, economic management, public administration, and party organisation offers Nigerians a credible alternative ahead of the 2027 elections.
“At a time when Nigerians are demanding competent leadership, economic recovery, job creation, improved security, and national unity, the Atiku-Amaechi ticket demonstrates the ADC’s readiness to govern and deliver results,” he said.
The party expressed confidence that the partnership would strengthen its coalition and inspire confidence among voters seeking a new direction for the country.
Amaechi previously served as Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly from 1999 to 2007, Governor of Rivers State from 2007 to 2015, and Minister of Transportation between 2015 and 2022.
