Former Minister of Transportation and chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, on Tuesday announced his intention to contest the 2027 presidential election under the ADC banner.
Speaking on his confidence to secure the party’s ticket, Hon. Amaechi said, “If I lose, I will remain in ADC. But I believe I will get the ticket. I am the most experienced among all aspirants.”
He highlighted his extensive political experience, noting his tenure as Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, two-term governor of Rivers State, Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, Director-General of the Buhari Campaign, and Minister of Transportation.
He also pointed out his role in leading the opposition that defeated an incumbent president, describing it as a unique institutional experience.
“I am the first Nigerian to lead an opposition that defeated a sitting president. That experience is critical. Don’t give assignments that age will not allow people to do. Nigeria needs energy, capacity, and experience,” he added.
Amaechi criticized the administration of President Bola Tinubu, alleging that it has abandoned democratic ideals, drifted towards authoritarianism, and used state institutions to suppress dissent.
Explaining his departure from the All Progressives Congress (APC) after the 2023 presidential primaries, he said it was based on principle, not personal grievance.
“The truth is simple. I did not agree with the choice of presidential candidate. I did not believe he had the capacity to govern Nigeria. And I still do not believe so.
What is happening today has only confirmed my position. If I believe that someone lacks capacity, how then do I remain in the same party supporting that leadership? That would make me dishonest,” he said.
He further stressed that while President Tinubu once preached democracy, current actions suggest autocracy, with security agencies allegedly being deployed to intimidate critics and opposition figures.
