Key points

• Amaechi vows to contest the ADC presidential primary.

• He says continuous pushback against Tinubu’s government is necessary.

• His candidacy promises unity and nationwide support.

Former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi has declared his interest in running for the presidency in 2027 under the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

The former transportation minister said he would not withdraw from the race or step aside for any other aspirant.

Amaechi made his position clear during an interaction with journalists in Kano after meeting with a coalition of traders.

He stressed that the ADC primary election must remain open and competitive, saying the party’s delegates should decide the outcome.

In an interview with the BBC Hausa Service monitored in Kaduna, Amaechi said: “I will contest the ADC presidential primary, and by God’s grace, I hope to win so that I can face Tinubu in 2027.

I am not stepping down for anyone. Let the people decide who they want to lead.”

Continuous push against Tinubu’s government

Amaechi also took aim at President Bola Tinubu’s administration, accusing it of failing to meet the expectations of Nigerians.

He argued that citizens across the country were disillusioned with government policies and the state of the economy.

“Nigerians are tired because no one is happy under Tinubu,” he said. “It is not a North-South contest; people are suffering everywhere.

Even among the Yoruba, many feel excluded. He only rewards those close to him while the majority remain neglected.”

Amaechi maintained that every aspirant had the right to seek the ADC ticket. He described the contest as a healthy sign for internal party democracy, noting that zoning decisions would remain the responsibility of the party.

Amaechi sells himself as unifying candidate

The former minister argued that he remained one of the most prepared aspirants in the country. He said his candidacy offered a unifying option for Nigeria.

“If you look at all those aspiring, including Tinubu, tell me who is better prepared than I am?” Amaechi said.

“I come from the South, and we are not in conflict with the South-East, South-West, or even the North. My candidacy offers unity.”

On his influence in Rivers State, where his long-time rival and current FCT Minister Nyesom Wike remains dominant, Amaechi dismissed claims that his political weight had diminished.

He cited his recent visit to the state to inaugurate the ADC, where he said he drew massive crowds without paid mobilisation.

“That turnout should tell you something about where the people stand,” he said.