A group of public affairs and political analysts from Southern Nigeria has criticised the reported selection of former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi as the running mate to African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar for the 2027 election.
The analysts argued that the decision, if retained, could weaken Atiku’s chances of defeating the ruling party in the next presidential contest.
The reported choice has also generated debate among supporters of the ADC.
Concerns over electoral value
The analysts—Johnson Iheanacho, Eniafe Ayomide and Anga Fidelis—said they believe Amaechi may not provide the electoral advantage expected of a vice-presidential candidate.
In a joint statement issued on Friday, they questioned whether the reported decision aligned with Atiku’s objective of building a broad coalition capable of winning the 2027 election.
According to them, selecting a running mate should strengthen a presidential ticket politically and expand its support base across the country.
Analysts raise questions about political influence
The trio further claimed that Amaechi’s current political influence in Rivers State may not be strong enough to significantly boost the ADC’s electoral prospects.
They argued that a vice-presidential nominee should be able to mobilise support within his home state and across the wider region.
The analysts also suggested that the opposition would need a united strategy to compete effectively in the next general election.
Debate continues within opposition
The reported emergence of Amaechi has continued to attract mixed reactions from politicians and political observers.
Earlier, ADC chieftain Kenneth Okonkwo also criticised the reported choice of Amaechi as Atiku’s running mate.
However, neither Atiku’s campaign nor the ADC has officially responded to the latest comments by the analysts.