Former Minister of Transportation and ex-Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi, has officially declared his intention to run for president in 2027 under the platform of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

Amaechi announced his ambition on Wednesday in Kano after meeting with a coalition of traders. He vowed not to step down for any aspirant, insisting that the party must conduct a transparent and competitive primary.

“I will contest the ADC presidential primary, and by God’s grace, I hope to win so that I can face Tinubu in 2027. I am not stepping down for anyone. Let the people decide who they want to lead,” he said.

The former governor criticized the Bola Tinubu administration, claiming Nigerians were suffering under harsh economic policies. He argued that only a small circle around the President had benefited from appointments, leaving many groups across the country sidelined.

Amaechi also dismissed talks about zoning within the ADC, stressing that he would remain in the race regardless of how the party structures its ticket.

‘I Am Better Prepared Than Tinubu’

Positioning himself as one of the most qualified contenders, Amaechi said his candidacy would unify Nigerians.

“If you look at all those aspiring, including Tinubu, who is better prepared than I am? My candidacy offers unity because I come from the South, and we are not in conflict with any region,” he said.

On suggestions that his influence in Rivers State had waned due to the rise of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, Amaechi dismissed the claims.

“When I visited Rivers recently to inaugurate the ADC, the turnout was massive from the airport to the venue, and nobody paid for that mobilisation. That should tell you where the people stand,” he said.

With his declaration, Amaechi becomes one of the earliest high-profile politicians to openly signal a 2027 presidential bid, setting the stage for what could be a heated contest against incumbent President Tinubu.