The presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Atiku Abubakar, has commenced consultations across the country to select a running mate ahead of the 2027 presidential election, with sources indicating that the process remains ongoing and no final decision has been reached.
Key Highlights:
- Atiku Abubakar is consulting on a running mate for 2027.
- Rotimi Amaechi, Donald Duke, and Emeka Ihedioha are key contenders.
- Amaechi remains a top option despite concerns over the primary election.
- The South-South and South-East are key focus regions for the VP search.
- The African Democratic Congress is also dealing with internal disputes ahead of 2027.
According to sources within the opposition coalition, Atiku is personally leading discussions with key political stakeholders, particularly in the South-South and South-East regions, as the party seeks to assemble a ticket capable of challenging the ruling establishment in the next general election.
The development comes after Atiku secured the ADC presidential ticket, defeating former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, and former banker Mohammed Hayatu-Deen during the party’s primary election.
Sources familiar with the consultations told Daily Sun that Amaechi remains one of the leading contenders despite publicly denying reports that he had been offered the vice-presidential slot.
Supporters of Amaechi’s candidacy reportedly argue that his experience as a two-term governor of Rivers State, coupled with his national political profile, could strengthen the party’s prospects in the South-South and across the country.
However, concerns have reportedly been raised within the campaign over Amaechi’s public dissatisfaction with the outcome of the ADC primary election and his reservations regarding the conduct of the exercise.
Another prominent figure under consideration is former Cross River State governor, Donald Duke, who joined the ADC earlier this year after leaving the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Sources said Duke’s reputation, administrative record and relatively low political baggage have made him attractive to some strategists within the Atiku camp. However, his past public criticism of Atiku’s repeated presidential ambitions is said to be a factor being carefully considered during the selection process.
The South-East is also receiving significant attention as the search intensifies.
Former Imo State governor, Emeka Ihedioha, has reportedly emerged as one of the leading names from the region.region
Political insiders believe Ihedioha’s influence within the South-East political establishment and his acceptance among key stakeholders could help mobilise support for the ADC in the zone.
Atiku’s focus on the South-East and South-South mirrors the strategy adopted in his previous presidential campaigns. In 2019, he selected Peter Obi from the South-East as his running mate, while in 2023 he picked Ifeanyi Okowa from the South-South.
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Sources said there is currently no indication that the South-West is being considered for the vice-presidential position, despite the region’s electoral significance.
The consultations are taking place amid an ongoing leadership dispute within the ADC that has found its way to court, adding to the challenges facing the opposition party as it prepares for the 2027 elections.
