Amaechi to ADC: Only a Viable Candidate Can Challenge Tinubu

Rotimi Amaechi, who previously served as the Minister of Transportation and led Rivers State as governor, has urged the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to focus on electing a credible presidential contender who can effectively contest against President Bola Tinubu in the upcoming 2027 general elections. Amaechi cautioned that internal discord and an overemphasis on identity politics, such as ethnicity and religion, could undermine the opposition's capacity to present a formidable challenge to the ruling party.

During the ADC convention held in Abuja on Tuesday, Amaechi asserted that any opposition group expecting President Tinubu to cede power without a substantial electoral fight would be mistaken. He emphasized the necessity for the ADC to unite and identify a candidate with a strong chance of winning.

He further advised that the opposition should prioritize electability over considerations of ethnicity or religion, arguing that such factors have historically fragmented political alliances in Nigeria. Amaechi recalled the strategy employed when forming the All Progressives Congress (APC) before 2015, stating that the focus then was on finding a viable candidate, which ultimately proved successful. He warned that reverting to ethnic and religious appeals would hinder progress.

Amaechi maintained that only a candidate with broad appeal and genuine credibility could rally the opposition and pose a significant threat to Tinubu's electoral standing in 2027.

Additionally, he voiced concerns about the current administration's actions, suggesting that they are actively suppressing democratic freedoms and hindering the opposition's ability to organize politically.

The ADC had previously reported difficulties in securing key venues for its convention in Abuja, including the Eagle Square and Moshood Abiola National Stadium. This situation reportedly forced the party to relocate its event to the Rainbow Event Centre.

Bolaji Abdullahi, a spokesperson for the ADC, alleged that pressure was applied to venue management to revoke the party's booking, further indicating obstacles to their preparations.

In response to these alleged obstructions, Amaechi questioned the motives behind actions aimed at preventing political gatherings. He posed a rhetorical question regarding why a government official would attempt to deny citizens their constitutional right to assemble.

Amaechi also expressed skepticism about President Tinubu's commitment to democratic principles, drawing a contrast with his historical involvement in pro-democracy movements.

He critically asked how an individual known for advocating democracy and associated with the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) could now act in ways that contradict democratic norms. He suggested that such actions could be interpreted as an attempt to penalize Nigerians.

Amaechi referenced the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), a prominent pro-democracy group established in 1994 to oppose military rule and advocate for the validation of the June 12, 1993 presidential election results.

Furthermore, Amaechi claimed that public institutions are being utilized against citizens and opposition entities. He issued a stark warning about the escalating challenges of insecurity and economic hardship facing Nigeria.

"The situation is bad; it is terrible," he stated.

Erizia Rubyjeana