Former Rivers State governor, Rotimi Amaechi, says he will not step aside for any aspirant in the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential race, insisting he is prepared to challenge President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 general election if he clinches the party’s ticket.
Amaechi, who spoke with journalists on Wednesday in Kano, maintained that only the people should decide who emerges, not political bargains in 2027 elections.
“I will contest the ADC presidential primary, and by God’s grace, I hope to win so that I can face Tinubu in 2027,” he declared. “I am not stepping down for anyone. Let the people decide who they want to lead.”
The former minister of transportation argued that his experience places him ahead of other contenders, including the president.
“If you look at all those aspiring, including Tinubu, who is better prepared than I am? My candidacy offers unity because I come from the south, and we are not in conflict with any region,” he said.
Amaechi also dismissed claims that his political influence in Rivers State had been weakened by Nyesom Wike, his successor and current FCT minister.
“Recently, when I visited Rivers to inaugurate the ADC, the turnout was massive from the airport to the venue, and nobody paid for that mobilisation. That should tell you where the people stand,” he noted.
He further criticised the Tinubu administration, insisting Nigerians are disillusioned and ready for change.
“Whether the government wants to conduct credible elections or not, one thing is certain: time is up,” Amaechi said. “Nigerians are tired because no one is happy under Tinubu, not even in Rivers or across the south. People are suffering everywhere.”
Tribune Online reports that Amaechi, resigned from the All Progressives Congress (APC) in July and, has repeatedly said he never believed in Tinubu’s capacity to govern.
Earlier this month, he declared he would defeat the president in 2027 if he emerges as ADC’s flagbearer.
His fresh declaration comes days after former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar also announced his interest in the 2027 presidential race under the ADC platform.
(Tribune)
