Former Vice‑President Atiku Abubakar’s bloc of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has begun searching for a southern running mate ahead of the 2027 presidential election, with former Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate Peter Obi identified as the preferred choice.
Should Obi decline, attention is reportedly shifting to former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi.
Political ally Dele Momodu urged Obi to accept the offer, describing a partnership with Atiku as “the strongest potential alliance” capable of ending the All Progressives Congress’ (APC) hold on power.
Momodu recalled that both men ran together on a Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) ticket in 2019 but lost to then-President Muhammadu Buhari. In 2023, they contested separately, Atiku on the PDP platform and Obi on the LP structure, but were defeated by President Bola Tinubu.
Momodu said Obi’s supporters have largely influenced the reluctance to collaborate, noting they prefer opposition parties led exclusively by southern candidates. He warned that any delay or refusal could squander a major political opportunity.
“If Peter Obi does not take advantage of a ready-made union between him and Atiku, it would be very unfortunate. It would be as good as working for Tinubu to come back,” he said.
Should Obi opt out, Momodu suggested Amaechi could become Atiku’s running mate.
“A lot of people are underrating Amaechi. He mobilised support for Buhari more than any other person, even more than Tinubu. If Obi does not make up his mind, then the mantle might fall on Rotimi Amaechi,” he added.
Atiku officially joined the ADC earlier this year, marking his departure from the PDP as he positions himself for a renewed presidential bid.
One of Amaechi’s aides, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed that the former minister remains committed to pursuing the presidential ticket of the ADC. However, the aide said discussions about a vice-presidential offer are not yet mature, noting that the party’s primary dynamics could influence decisions ahead of nominations.
Another ally indicated that pre-primary arrangements to accept a vice-presidential slot could be strategic if Amaechi cannot secure the presidential ticket.
“Accepting Atiku’s running mate position may not be a bad idea. There will be too many brushes after the primary, so it is better to have a deal before the primary,” the source said.
Meanwhile, Obi’s camp has maintained a cautious stance. Yunusa Tanko, National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, reiterated Obi’s readiness to contest in 2027 but stressed that any alliance must be based on clear terms.
“It all depends on what terms they want Obi to team up with them. Nigerians need a president who has the mobility and depth in knowing what is wrong with the country,” he said.
Tanko also emphasised Obi’s commitment to a single term if elected and the importance of continuing southern representation in the presidency.
As the 2027 elections approach, the decisions of Obi and Amaechi are expected to shape not only the opposition ticket but also Nigeria’s broader political dynamics. With the ADC continuing national mobilisation following Atiku’s defection, momentum is likely to build toward formal announcements of candidates in the coming months.
