…ADC leaders had denied endorsing Amaechi, noting that he merely informed them of his intention to run.
EDO, NIGERIA- The iNews Times | The African Democratic Congress (ADC) appeared divided yesterday over reports that former Rivers State Governor, Mr. Rotimi Amaechi, had emerged as the South-South consensus presidential candidate for the party’s 2027 elections.
Amaechi, a former Minister of Transportation, was reportedly endorsed at a meeting of zonal leaders held at the Benin residence of Chief John Odigie-Oyegun in Edo State. However, two national officers of the ADC from the South-South disagreed on whether the meeting constituted a formal endorsement. While Usani Uguru Usani, National Vice Chairman for the South-South, claimed Amaechi was adopted, Deputy National Publicity Secretary Jackie Wayas said otherwise.
The Obidient Movement, which supports former Anambra State Governor Mr. Peter Obi, also stated that Amaechi was not endorsed by the South-South zone. Efforts to get comments from Amaechi and Odigie-Oyegun proved unsuccessful, though Amaechi later shared a video on his WhatsApp in which Odigie-Oyegun reportedly confirmed the support of South-South leaders.
Amaechi, who finished second to Asiwaju Bola Tinubu in the 2022 APC presidential primaries, informed party leaders in the South-South zone of his intention to run, emphasizing that it was proper to seek their backing before approaching other regions. He highlighted his experience, track record, and ability to lead Nigeria.
Usani praised Amaechi’s candidacy, stressing the importance of regional unity behind a highly qualified aspirant. Support also came from ADC Deputy National Chairman Sen. Andrew Uchendu, former Cross River State Governor Liyel Imoke, and Professor Pat Utomi. At the meeting, Odigie-Oyegun reportedly called for a voice vote, with participants responding positively, which Usani interpreted as a pledge of support.
Usani clarified that the process did not preclude individual decisions or imply the absence of support for other aspirants in the zone. He emphasized that the step-by-step procedure ensured the integrity and harmony of the forum.
Consultation Not Endorsement, Says Wayas
Wayas disagreed with claims of endorsement, describing the meeting as a routine consultative session to discuss party progress and strengthen unity. She stressed that consultation should not be mistaken for endorsement and that no motion, resolution, or vote was conducted to support any candidate. Wayas reaffirmed that candidate nomination is the prerogative of constitutionally recognized ADC organs, not a few zonal leaders.
Obidient Movement Confirms No Endorsement
Dr. Yunusa Tanko, National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, told the iNews Times that ADC leaders had denied endorsing Amaechi, noting that he merely informed them of his intention to run.
Odigie-Oyegun Claims Unanimous Support
In the video posted by Amaechi, Odigie-Oyegun reportedly said the South-South leaders had unanimously agreed to support Amaechi’s presidential ambition. He praised Amaechi for consulting the zone before embarking on his campaign and stated that regular meetings would be held to strengthen collaboration. Odigie-Oyegun expressed hope for peace and stability in the run-up to the 2027 elections and affirmed the party’s commitment to winning.
