Political Twist: Atiku Bypasses Amaechi, Considers Ihedioha For Vice Presidential Ticket

Atiku secured the party’s presidential ticket on Wednesday, a result that was contested by fellow aspirants Rotimi Amaechi and Mohammed Hayatu-Deen.

In his acceptance speech, he urged both men to join him in efforts to unseat the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and address Nigeria’s challenges.

However, according to a report by Leadership, Atiku is not currently considering either Amaechi or Hayatu-Deen for the vice-presidential position.

Sources within the party and close to the presidential candidate indicate that discussions are leaning toward selecting a running mate from the South-East, a region viewed as a strategic political base ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The position was previously believed to be earmarked for former Anambra State governor Peter Obi before his exit from the ADC to the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).

Former Imo State governor and ex-Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Emeka Ihedioha, is now reportedly emerging as a strong contender for the role.

Unlike several South-East politicians who left the ADC alongside Obi, Ihedioha remained in the party and is said to have played a significant role in rallying support for Atiku during the presidential primary.

A senior party source noted that Ihedioha’s efforts were instrumental in helping the party secure strong backing from the region.

Meanwhile, concerns have reportedly been raised within Atiku’s camp about Amaechi’s limited political influence in Rivers State and the wider South-South region.

According to insiders, the preference for a South-East running mate is driven by electoral strategy, with doubts that Amaechi can effectively deliver his state or ward.

Party insiders also confirmed that consultations are ongoing in line with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) timetable for candidate submissions ahead of the 2027 elections.

Atiku’s Special Adviser, Paul Ibe, stated that discussions on the party’s ticket composition are still ongoing and that the ADC will comply with all INEC deadlines.

While he ruled out Amaechi as a likely choice, he neither confirmed nor denied reports linking Ihedioha to the vice-presidential slot, stating that consultations are still in progress.