Former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, has reportedly turned down an appeal by Peter Obi to step aside ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
According to sources cited by Leadership, the request was made during a private meeting held over the weekend at Amaechi’s residence in Abuja. Obi was said to have attended the meeting alongside former Imo State Governor, Achike Udenwa, and Senator Victor Umeh.
Amaechi, Obi, and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar have all shown interest in contesting the 2027 presidency under the platform of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), led by Senator David Mark.
The development comes as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has scheduled party primaries to take place between April 23 and May 30, with political parties expected to adopt either direct primaries or consensus arrangements.
A source present at the meeting disclosed that Amaechi firmly declined Obi’s request, emphasizing that his presidential ambition remains intact. The source described the rejection as polite but resolute, noting that Amaechi is fully committed to the race.
Confirming this stance, Amaechi’s ally and ADC chieftain, Eze Eze, stated that the former governor has no intention of withdrawing from the contest. He added that Amaechi believes in a fair primary process and is willing to support whoever emerges as the party’s candidate—while expecting the same loyalty if he wins.