“Atiku, Obi Are All Regional Candidates, But I Am Not” — Amaechi Rules Out Consensus in ADC

Former Rivers State governor, Rotimi Amaechi, has said all presidential aspirants within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) are operating along regional lines, dismissing the possibility of a consensus candidate ahead of the 2027 election.

Amaechi made the remarks during an interview on Channels Television, where he addressed the growing list of contenders within the party. Among those seeking the ADC ticket are former Anambra State governor, Peter Obi, and former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar.

According to Amaechi, he is the only aspirant not driven by regional considerations. He stressed that the party would rely on a formal primary process rather than consensus to select its presidential candidate.

“It is within the right of the former vice president to declare his ambition,” Amaechi said. “However, there are broader considerations beyond regional origin.”

He argued that identity-based politics has contributed to Nigeria’s current challenges, urging voters to move away from ethnic and religious sentiments.

Amaechi also criticised the role of religious alignment in previous electoral decisions, noting that economic realities now outweigh such considerations.

“The market does not recognise religion,” he said. “It responds only to economic factors like the value of the naira.”

His comments come amid early political positioning within opposition parties as preparations gradually begin for the 2027 general election.