BREAKING: Amaechi Accepts Atiku’s Running Mate Role in ADC

Former Transport Minister Rotimi Amaechi has reportedly accepted the ADC vice-presidential slot, joining Atiku Abubakar’s ticket despite earlier rejecting the possibility of becoming a running mate.

The presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress, Atiku Abubakar, has reportedly selected former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi as his running mate ahead of the next general election.

The development marks a significant turn in the party’s internal politics, particularly given Amaechi’s previous position on the vice-presidential role.

The confirmation was provided by the immediate past chairman of the ADC in Rivers State, Sampson Leader, who disclosed on Saturday that Amaechi had accepted the nomination.

When asked whether the former minister had agreed to serve as Atiku’s running mate, Leader responded in the affirmative, stating simply, “Yes.”

Amaechi had contested the ADC presidential primary election against Atiku but was unsuccessful in securing the party’s presidential ticket. His participation in the race was widely viewed as a major challenge to Atiku’s ambition within the party.

Before the primary election, Amaechi repeatedly stated that he did not purchase the ADC presidential nomination form with the intention of eventually becoming a vice-presidential candidate.

His comments at the time suggested a determination to pursue the party’s top ticket rather than settle for a supporting role.

Following the conclusion of the primary, Amaechi was also among those who expressed dissatisfaction with the outcome. Several aggrieved party members alleged that the exercise had been manipulated in favour of Atiku, claims that generated controversy within the party.

Amaechi openly rejected the result and raised concerns about the conduct of the primary process, fueling speculation about possible divisions within the ADC.

However, the latest development indicates that efforts at reconciliation may have succeeded, paving the way for a partnership between the two prominent politicians.

Political observers believe the combination of Atiku and Amaechi could strengthen the ADC’s electoral prospects by bringing together two experienced political figures with extensive national networks and government experience.

Atiku previously served as Vice President of Nigeria, while Amaechi is a former governor of Rivers State and a two-term minister.

The ADC is yet to issue an official statement announcing the vice-presidential nomination, but the reported acceptance by Amaechi is expected to reshape the party’s preparations as attention shifts toward the upcoming election cycle.