Former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, has dismissed claims that he may run as a vice-presidential candidate alongside former Vice President Atiku Abubakar in the 2027 elections.
The rumour began after a public comment from one of Atiku’s allies, Dele Momodu, that Amaechi could be considered as a possible running mate if Peter Obi declines to join the former vice president. Momodu had praised Amaechi’s relevance and recalled his key role in the APC’s 2015 victory.
Reacting to the speculation, Amaechi — through his media aide, David Iyofor — made it clear that he is not interested in serving as anyone’s running mate. Iyofor said Amaechi is focused on contesting for president on the platform of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and believes it is time for the South to produce the next leader of the country.
According to Iyofor, Amaechi “is not seeking to be running mate to anybody” and has no plans to be part of any discussions that position him as a vice-presidential candidate. He stressed that Amaechi’s goal is to become president, not a deputy.
Amaechi has repeatedly expressed his intention to pursue the ADC ticket. Earlier in the year, he announced that he would not step aside for any aspirant during the party’s primary, insisting that the delegates must choose the flagbearer. He also stated that he was willing to serve a single term if elected, in order to support power rotation and ensure political stability.
Before joining the ADC, Amaechi contested the presidential primary of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2022, finishing second behind Bola Tinubu, who eventually won the election.
With the 2027 race gradually taking shape, Amaechi has now drawn a clear line — he is seeking the top seat and will not settle for anything less.
