The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has argued that the choice of former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, as the African Democratic Congress (ADC) vice-presidential candidate could weaken Atiku Abubakar’s chances of winning the 2027 presidential election.
Speaking during his monthly media briefing on Tuesday, Wike maintained that Amaechi lacks the political influence and electoral strength needed to boost Atiku’s campaign.
According to the FCT Minister, Atiku’s decision to pick Amaechi was not based on electoral value but was driven by financial considerations rather than political calculations.
Wike further claimed that Amaechi has not secured victory in any election since 2011, when he served as the Director-General of his campaign. He argued that despite Amaechi’s experience as a former governor and former minister, he does not command the level of support required to significantly influence the outcome of a national election.
The minister also faulted Amaechi for accepting the ADC vice-presidential ticket after previously dismissing the party’s presidential primary, which produced Atiku as its candidate, as corrupt.
Wike said, “Amaechi becoming Atiku’s running mate has only convinced me that it will be difficult for Atiku to emerge president. If the decision was based on attracting votes, then it is already dead on arrival. The only reason I can think of for choosing Amaechi may be financial.”
