Rotimi Amaechi speaks on VP role, amid search for Atikus running mate ahead of 2027
Rotimi Amaechi speaks on VP role, amid search for Atikus running mate ahead of 2027
Former Minister of Transportation and ex-Rivers State governor, Rotimi Amaechi, has dismissed speculation that he may serve as a vice-presidential candidate to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar or join any joint ticket ahead of the 2027 elections.
The clarification comes after a comment by Atiku’s ally and media entrepreneur, Dele Momodu, who suggested that Amaechi could emerge as a potential running mate if Peter Obi declines to run on a joint ticket under the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
In an interview with Sunday PUNCH, Momodu said Amaechi could become Atiku’s running mate if Obi turns down the offer, while also highlighting Amaechi’s influence in previous elections.
“A lot of people are underrating Amaechi. Amaechi single-handedly handed power to Buhari. What the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, is doing now, though in an unruly manner, Amaechi did quite well when he was governor of Rivers State,” he stated.
He added, “Amaechi mobilised more than any other person for Buhari, even more than Tinubu. If Obi does not make up his mind or chooses to run alone, then I believe the mantle might fall on Rotimi Amaechi.”
However, Amaechi, through his media aide David Iyofor, ruled out any interest in a vice-presidential slot, insisting that his focus remains on contesting the presidency.
“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 stated.
He stressed that no discussions had taken place regarding Amaechi taking up a vice-presidential role. “Amaechi is not aware of, and will not be part of any talk to be running mate to anybody. For emphasis, Amaechi is running to be President of Nigeria and not to be a running mate to anybody.”
Iyofor further warned, “Politicians are kindly advised to leave Amaechi’s name out of any discussion for presidential running mate.”
Amaechi had earlier asserted his qualifications to be President of Nigeria, citing his political experience and record of service, during a meeting with APC delegates, his former party, in May 2022.
