Jun 1, 2026

Three Political Heavyweights Jostle Over Atiku's VP Ticket

By Afolabi Olaiya Idowu in politics

👁️ loading views...

Intense horse-trading has gripped the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as three heavyweight politicians emerge as frontrunners for the vice presidential slot alongside presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar.

Former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi, former Imo State Governor Emeka Ihedioha, and former Cross River State Governor Donald Duke now stand at the heart of high-stakes negotiations that could define the party’s 2027 strategy.

Sources close to the deliberations confirm that discussions have reached the final stage. Party leaders weigh political strength, regional balance, and nationwide acceptability for each contender.

This development comes days after Atiku clinched the ADC presidential ticket with a commanding 1,846,370 votes in the primary, defeating Amaechi, who secured 509,397 votes amid claims of irregularities.

Amaechi, a former minister of transportation, brings vast experience and southern influence.

Yet his public rejection of the primary results adds complexity to his potential selection. Ihedioha, an astute former deputy speaker of the House of Representatives, offers strong Southeast credentials and proven legislative clout.

Duke, who governed Cross River from 1999 to 2007, recently emerged as the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) presidential candidate.

His selection could pave the way for an ADC-PRP alliance, though questions linger about his relevance after nearly two decades outside active power.

Strategic Calculations and Political Realities

Party insiders stress that regional calculations dominate the conversation.

Atiku, a Northeast stalwart and six-time presidential contender, needs a strong southern partner to broaden appeal.

His recent visit to Amaechi’s residence signals ongoing reconciliation efforts within the opposition fold.

However, the path remains fraught. Atiku has described 2027 as his “last outing,” reversing an earlier promise to step aside after the 2023 election.

Critics view this persistence as both determination and desperation in a political landscape still dominated by President Bola Tinubu’s APC machinery.

The ADC positions itself as a viable alternative, promising better governance amid current economic hardships.

This high-level maneuvering reflects deeper opposition dynamics.

With Atiku’s extensive experience as vice president from 1999 to 2007, the chosen running mate must complement his profile while addressing concerns over electability.

Analysts note that any misstep in this selection could fracture fragile coalitions forming against the ruling party.

As deliberations continue, Nigerians watch closely.

The final choice will not only shape the ADC ticket but also signal whether the opposition can truly unite to challenge the status quo in 2027.