Former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi has called for a transparent primary election within the African Democratic Congress (ADC), rejecting any move to impose a consensus presidential candidate ahead of the 2027 elections.
Amaechi said party members should be allowed to freely choose their candidate, stressing that democracy must be upheld within the party.
He maintained that leadership should emerge through a credible voting process rather than backroom agreements.
On the possible emergence of Atiku Abubakar as the party’s flag bearer, Amaechi said he would support him if he wins a fair primary.
However, he insisted that no aspirant should be handed the ticket without going through due process.
He described Atiku as eminently qualified to run for president, adding that every Nigerian has the constitutional right to contest for the country’s highest office regardless of zoning debates.
Amaechi dismissed arguments around North–South power rotation, noting that competence should take priority over regional considerations.
According to him, Nigeria needs a leader with the capacity and energy to tackle the country’s challenges.
Drawing comparisons with global trends, he pointed to the emergence of younger leaders in other countries, arguing that leadership requires strength, alertness, and the ability to respond quickly to national issues.
He said the presidency demands someone who can actively engage with citizens, understand problems first-hand, and work consistently towards solutions.
The former Rivers State governor also cautioned Nigerians against voting based on religion or ethnicity, blaming such considerations for the country’s current situation.
He argued that economic realities affect all citizens equally, regardless of faith or background. Amaechi further criticised the current administration under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, saying economic hardship has worsened across the country.
“Today, they have discovered that the market does not know Christians or Muslims. The market does not know that. The market understands just one language, Naira and Kobo. It doesn’t understand any other language. Now, everybody is suffering. Everybody is looking for food to eat,” he said.
He noted rising costs of fuel, transportation, and basic commodities, adding that many Nigerians are struggling to meet daily needs.
He said the focus of leadership should be on improving the economy and addressing citizens’ welfare, rather than identity politics.
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