The presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) for the 2027 general election, Atiku Abubakar, has reportedly identified former Rivers State governor and ex-Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, as his preferred running mate following a closed-door meeting held in Abuja on Monday evening.
The development comes weeks after the ADC presidential primary election in April, where Atiku secured the party’s ticket after defeating Amaechi and former economic adviser Mohammed Hayatu-Deen.
Sources familiar with the discussions revealed that the meeting centred on the party’s preparations for the 2027 presidential election, including ongoing consultations over the choice of a vice-presidential candidate.
Since the conclusion of the primary, attention within the party has shifted to selecting a running mate capable of enhancing the ADC’s national appeal and strengthening its support across key regions of the country.
Although Atiku is said to have allowed the party leadership significant input in the vice-presidential selection process, insiders maintain that Amaechi remains one of the leading contenders for the position.
According to sources, the former Rivers governor used the meeting to outline certain conditions and expectations before making a final commitment.
“Amaechi assured Atiku that he would revert within 48 hours concerning his demands,” a source familiar with the discussions disclosed.
The reported choice of Amaechi is expected to generate significant political interest, given his influence in the South-South region and his longstanding presence in national politics. However, neither Atiku nor the ADC has officially confirmed the vice-presidential nomination.
