According to a report by The Guardian on 12th June 2026, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has reportedly chosen former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, as his vice-presidential candidate ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
The development follows weeks of consultations and negotiations within the African Democratic Congress (ADC)-led coalition, which had faced internal disagreements after its primary election process; Sources close to the discussions disclosed that Atiku and Amaechi have reached an understanding that could see them contest on a joint ticket in the next general election.
Amaechi had previously dismissed reports suggesting he was interested in a vice-presidential position, insisting that his focus was on seeking the party’s presidential ticket; He also rejected suggestions of a consensus arrangement during the party’s nomination process.
However, insiders revealed that discussions involving influential political figures from various regions eventually persuaded the former Rivers State governor to accept the role; According to sources, Atiku assured Amaechi of a significant role in both the campaign structure and a potential administration.
Meanwhile, Atiku used the occasion of Democracy Day to criticize the administration of President Bola Tinubu, accusing it of undermining democratic principles and weakening opposition parties through political intimidation and institutional pressure.
In a statement marking June 12, the former vice president urged Nigerians to defend democracy, resist bad governance, and remain committed to the ideals that inspired the struggle for democratic rule.
He alleged that opposition parties had faced coordinated efforts aimed at creating internal crises, encouraging defections, and diminishing their effectiveness ahead of the 2027 elections.
Atiku also expressed concerns over what he described as the growing use of government institutions, including anti-corruption agencies, security bodies, and other state structures, to target opposition figures and suppress dissenting voices.
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