Southern Forum Rejects Amaechi As Atiku’s Possible Running Mate

A group, the Southern Political Progressives Amalgamation Forum (SPPAF), has asked former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to look elsewhere for his 2027 vice-presidential running mate on the platform of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

The Forum rejected reports suggesting that former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, is being considered as a possible running mate to the former Vice President.

Speaking for the forum, Johnson Iheanacho, Eniafe Ayomide and Anga Fidelis, in a statement issued yesterday, said the coalition under the ADC had given many Nigerians hope of a credible alternative to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

The group said the choice of running mate would be critical to the party’s electoral fortunes in 2027 and should be based on capacity, acceptability, and the ability to deliver votes across regions.

“The reports that Atiku may pick Amaechi as his running mate are worrying. The former minister no longer has the political influence needed to attract votes for the ADC.

“Amaechi cannot deliver Rivers State or the wider Niger Delta to the party and would become a political liability instead of an electoral asset,” the group said.

The forum noted that Amaechi’s public criticism of Atiku during the party’s presidential primary raised questions about his loyalty, adding that he had also dismissed suggestions that he could serve as Atiku’s running mate.

It further criticised Amaechi’s record as governor of Rivers State, citing alleged salary arrears, unpaid pensions, the abandoned monorail project, prolonged court closures, and other decisions it claimed eroded his popularity.

The group also alleged that politicians backed by Amaechi have continued to lose elections in Rivers State since 2015, describing it as evidence of his declining political influence.

It referenced alleged reports that Amaechi demanded control of key ministries and government agencies as part of discussions over the vice-presidential ticket, but acknowledged that the claims remain unverified.

The forum advised Atiku to prioritise a running mate with stronger grassroots support and wider national appeal, saying such a decision would improve the ADC’s chances of defeating the APC in the 2027 presidential election.

“Our focus should be on winning, not just participating. Nigerians deserve a balanced ticket that reflects competence and inclusiveness,” the group added.