Rotimi Amaechi, the former Governor of Rivers State, has firmly declared his intention to contest the presidency in 2027 on the platform of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), signaling a resolute "no retreat, no surrender" stance. Speaking to the press in Kano following a meeting with a coalition of traders, Amaechi emphasized that he will actively participate in the ADC primary election and intends to win the party's ticket to challenge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Amaechi stressed his unwillingness to step down for any other aspirant, underscoring the importance of an open and democratic primary where the people decide who should lead. He described the contest as healthy for the party’s internal democratic processes.
Criticizing the current administration under President Tinubu, Amaechi remarked that Nigerians nationwide are dissatisfied with the government's policies and governance style. He rejected the narrative framing the situation as a North-South divide, highlighting widespread hardship across all regions, including the South and Rivers State.
His declaration sets the stage for a potentially intense primary battle within the ADC as the 2027 general elections approach.