Atiku visits Amaechi as battle over ADC presidential ticket intensifies

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar met with former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi in Abuja, engaging in discussions about Nigeria's escalating economic and security crises. Abubakar shared details of the meeting on Facebook, referring to Amaechi as "my brother and compatriot" and highlighting their "deep and honest conversations" regarding the nation's challenges.

"This afternoon, I visited my brother and compatriot, former Governor of Rivers State and ex-Minister of Transportation, Chief Rotimi Amaechi, at his Abuja residence," Abubakar posted. "Beyond the warmth and camaraderie, we had deep and honest conversations about the troubling state of our nation, the growing economic pain, insecurity, and the urgent responsibility on patriotic Nigerians to continue engaging in the search for solutions that can rescue our country from drift and despair." Abubakar also conveyed birthday wishes to Amaechi and shared a lighthearted exchange about Arsenal Football Club's recent victory.

The meeting takes place as tensions rise within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) over its presidential ticket for the upcoming 2027 general election. Both Abubakar and Amaechi were among the aspirants for the ticket, alongside Mohammed Hayatu-deen. The party declared Abubakar the winner, but Amaechi and Hayatu-deen have contested the results, alleging manipulation.

Amaechi has remained silent on the meeting, and when contacted, declined to comment. A source close to Abubakar indicated that Amaechi was noncommittal during the discussions, stating he would make a decision on the ADC presidential ticket after consulting his supporters. The source added that Amaechi assured Abubakar that his eventual decision would be in Nigeria's best interest. Amaechi's influence is considered significant in shaping the opposition coalition aiming to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

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This afternoon, I visited my brother and compatriot, former Governor of Rivers State and ex-Minister of Transportation, Chief Rotimi Amaechi, at his Abuja residence. Beyond the warmth and camaraderie, we had deep and honest conversations about the troubling state of our nation, the growing economic pain, insecurity, and the urgent responsibility on patriotic Nigerians to continue engaging in the search for solutions that can rescue our country from drift and despair.