Amaechi Dismisses Joint Ticket Speculation, Vows to Contest 2027 Presidency as Candidate

Former Minister of Transportation and influential politician Rotimi Amaechi has categorically refuted claims suggesting he might accept a vice-presidential nomination from any candidate, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The firm denial, issued through his media office, insists that the former Rivers State governor is focused solely on running for the Nigerian presidency.

The controversy arose following a suggestion by Dele Momodu, a media figure and political ally of Atiku Abubakar. In a recent interview, Momodu posited that Amaechi could be a fallback option for the vice-presidential slot should Labour Party’s Peter Obi decline to join a unified opposition ticket, possibly under the African Democratic Congress (ADC) banner.

Momodu highly praised Amaechi’s political track record and mobilisation prowess. He contended that Amaechi is underestimated, stating: “Amaechi single-handedly handed power to Buhari,” referencing his successful leadership of the presidential campaigns in 2015 and 2019.

The media entrepreneur further suggested that Amaechi was uniquely qualified to fill a crucial gap in any opposition alliance. "If Obi does not make up his mind or chooses to run alone, then I believe the mantle might fall on Rotimi Amaechi,” Momodu stated, citing the need for a strong, capable figure to consolidate opposition power.

However, Amaechi’s position was made clear by his media aide, David Iyofor, who strongly condemned the ongoing speculation. Iyofor stated with finality: “Amaechi is not seeking to be a running mate to anybody. He does not intend to be a presidential running mate to anybody and will not.”

Iyofor maintained that the politician has neither been involved in nor is aware of any discussions regarding him taking a supportive role. He stressed the singular nature of Amaechi’s ambition, declaring: “Amaechi is running to be President of Nigeria and not to be a running mate to anybody.”

Iyofor concluded the statement by addressing politicians involved in the alliance talks, politely but firmly requesting: “Politicians are kindly advised to leave Amaechi’s name out of any discussion for presidential running mate.”