Former Minister of Transportation and two-term governor of Rivers State, Chibuike Amaechi, has officially declared his intention to run for president in 2027 under the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

In a video shared on X, Amaechi expressed confidence in defeating President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, claiming he understands Tinubu’s political strengths and weaknesses, though they have never faced off in a direct electoral contest.

Rigging Allegations and Governance Promises

Amaechi denied involvement in election rigging during his time with the All Progressives Congress (APC), alleging that vote rigging in Nigeria is largely orchestrated by governors using public funds. He vowed to end the practice within one month of assuming office.

He also promised sweeping constitutional reforms, including a change in the basis of citizenship. Amaechi acknowledged that Labour Party candidate Peter Obi actually won the 2023 presidential vote in Rivers State, contradicting the official INEC results.

“INEC Chairman Mahmood Yakubu is the worst in history,” Amaechi said, while accusing unnamed powerful individuals of looting the Central Bank of Nigeria.

ADC’s Leadership Crisis and Political Realignments

The ADC is grappling with internal conflicts following the resignation of its long-time chairman, Ralph Nwosu. A new coalition, backed by prominent politicians including David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola, has adopted the party as its platform for 2027.

However, a faction of the party, the “Concerned State Chairmen of the ADC”, has accused the coalition of attempting to hijack the party. Despite the dispute, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) still recognises Nwosu’s leadership on its website.

The party later reaffirmed Alhaji Nafiu Bala as its chairman. Tensions remain high as members seek clarity on party legitimacy and leadership going into the 2027 elections.

Call for Unity Amid Rival Invitations

Interim National Secretary Rauf Aregbesola has urged party members to put aside personal interests and unite in the effort to defeat the APC. He claimed the ADC now enjoys the backing of opposition heavyweights such as Peter Obi and Atiku Abubakar.

Meanwhile, former Kaduna governor Nasir el-Rufai, now in the Social Democratic Party (SDP), has invited Amaechi, Obi, Atiku, and Aregbesola to join him instead, warning that merging under ADC could cause legal complications.

EFCC and Allegations of Political Witch-Hunting

The ADC has accused the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) of being used as a political tool to harass opposition figures ahead of the 2027 elections. The party condemned the detention and investigation of leaders including Aminu Tambuwal, Emeka Ihedioha, and David Mark.

The EFCC, in response, denied any bias. Chairman Ola Olukoyede stated:

“If I am not condemned for investigating ruling party figures, I should not be condemned for investigating the opposition either. The EFCC acts without fear or favour.”

Looking Ahead

As Nigeria inches toward the 2027 elections, Amaechi’s declaration adds momentum to the growing opposition coalition. However, internal party disputes, strategic realignments, and questions of credibility continue to shape the landscape.