FORMER Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, has firmly ruled out the possibility of accepting a vice-presidential slot in the 2027 general elections, insisting that he is solely in the race to become Nigeria’s next president.
News Point Nigeria reports that Amaechi’s position comes amid growing speculation following comments by media entrepreneur and political ally of Atiku Abubakar, Dele Momodu, who recently suggested that the former Rivers State governor could be considered as a running mate to the former Vice President—especially if Peter Obi declines a joint ticket with Atiku.
Momodu, speaking in an interview, argued that many Nigerians underestimate Amaechi’s political influence, recalling his decisive support for former President Muhammadu Buhari in 2015.
“A lot of people are underrating Amaechi. Amaechi single-handedly handed power to Buhari. What Wike is doing now, though in an unruly manner, Amaechi did even better as Rivers governor. He mobilised more than anyone else for Buhari—more than even Tinubu,” he said.
“If Obi doesn’t make up his mind or chooses to run alone, I believe the mantle might fall on Rotimi Amaechi.”
But in a swift and emphatic response, Amaechi’s media aide, David Iyofor, dismissed any suggestion that his principal is interested in playing second fiddle.
“Amaechi is not seeking to be running mate to anybody. He does not intend to be a vice-presidential candidate and will not,” Iyofor said.
He explained that Amaechi is fully focused on pursuing the presidential ticket of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), emphasising that the former minister believes it is the turn of Southern Nigeria to produce the next president.
“Amaechi is not aware of, and will not be part of, any talks to be running mate to anybody. For emphasis, Amaechi is running to be President of Nigeria and not a running mate,” he added.
“Politicians are kindly advised to leave Amaechi’s name out of any discussion for vice-presidential consideration.”
Amaechi, who was the runner-up in the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential primary in 2023, defected to the ADC earlier this year, where he has since declared his intention to seek the party’s 2027 presidential nomination.
