Amaechi as Atiku’s VP Not a Plus – Wike
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Nyesom Wike has criticised the choice of former Rivers State
Governor Rotimi Amaechi as running mate to Atiku Abubakar, the African Democratic Congress (ADC)
presidential candidate for the 2027 election.
Wike described the pairing as offering no electoral advantage, particularly in Rivers State and the South-
South region.
Wike made the remarks during a media chat with selected radio stations in Port Harcourt on Saturday,
August 1, 2026.
He argued that Amaechi, despite serving as governor and later as a senior minister under former
President Muhammadu Buhari, failed to deliver significant votes for Buhari in Rivers State.
“Chibuike Amaechi running as vice-presidential candidate is not a plus for Atiku Abubakar,” he stated.
The FCT minister cited Amaechi’s past political record, including his inability to produce a successor as
governor and his limited influence in delivering 25% of votes for Buhari in the state during his ministerial
tenure.
He also referenced Amaechi’s public comments about his role in the defeat of former President
Goodluck Jonathan in 2015, saying such statements could hinder acceptance among Rivers voters.
Amaechi emerged as Atiku’s running mate after losing the ADC presidential primary to the former Vice
President.
The development has heightened political tensions in Rivers State, where Wike and Amaechi have long
been rivals.
By Oyinkansola Shittu.
