Strong indications have emerged within opposition circles that former Vice President Atiku Abubakar may be considering former Rivers State Governor and ex-Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, as a possible running mate ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
Multiple party insiders familiar with ongoing consultations disclosed that discussions between loyalists of both political heavyweights have intensified in recent weeks, fueling speculation of a strategic North-South alliance aimed at strengthening opposition chances in the next general election.
Although either camp has issued no official confirmation, sources within the coalition talks say Amaechi’s political structure, influence in the South-South region, and experience at the federal level are factors being seriously considered.
A senior opposition figure, who spoke anonymously because he was not authorised to comment publicly, said:
“Amaechi remains one of the strongest political forces from the South-South. His experience and grassroots appeal make him a valuable option in any coalition arrangement.”
Political observers believe such a ticket could reshape opposition politics if formal negotiations progress successfully. However, aides close to both Atiku and Amaechi insist discussions remain at a preliminary stage and no final decision has been reached.
The development comes amid growing efforts by opposition leaders to build a formidable coalition capable of challenging the ruling party in 2027.
Meanwhile, following the visit, Atiku took to his social media handles to reveal details of the meeting.
According to him, the visit served as a means of “deep and honest conversations about the troubling state of our nation, the growing economic pain, insecurity, and the urgent responsibility on patriotic Nigerians to continue engaging in the search for solutions that can rescue our country from drift and despair.”
He wrote: “This afternoon, I visited my brother and compatriot, former Governor of Rivers State and ex-Minister of Transportation, Chief Rotimi Amaechi, at his Abuja residence.
“Beyond the warmth and camaraderie, we had deep and honest conversations about the troubling state of our nation, the growing economic pain, insecurity, and the urgent responsibility on patriotic Nigerians to continue engaging in the search for solutions that can rescue our country from drift and despair.
“I also felicitated with him on the occasion of his birthday yesterday and teased that Arsenal’s historic triumph could not have arrived at a better time. Chief Amaechi, a thoroughly well-loaded Gunner, took the banter in very good spirits.
“In true Rivers hospitality, he apologised for not having enough time to prepare Fisherman Soup, a delicacy I have now been promised on our return for the second leg . -AA”
The meeting follows the recently concluded ADC presidential primary, where Atiku defeated Amaechi and businessman Mohammed Hayatu-Deen to clinch the ticket.
Although Amaechi had rejected the outcome of the primary before the official declaration, alleging that the process was fraught with irregularities, Atiku had used his acceptance speech to appeal to Amaechi and other aggrieved members to close ranks for the 2027 general election.
