ADC South-South Reaffirms Support for Amaechi, Says Backing Was Voluntary

ADC South-South Backs Amaechi for 2027
The South-South Forum of the African Democratic Congress has declared its support for former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi in the 2027 presidential race, stating that the decision was made willingly by members during a regional meeting in Benin City on February 27, 2026.

The position was made known on Saturday by the party’s National Vice Chairman for the South-South, Usani Uguru Usani.

He said the endorsement took place at a meeting chaired by former Edo State Governor John Odigie-Oyegun, where Amaechi informed leaders of his plan to seek the party’s presidential ticket and requested support from his region.

Usani explained that after Amaechi presented his intention, a motion was raised to consider his request. The regional leader then called for a voice vote.

According to him, members responded in agreement, and no opposing voice was heard. He described the outcome as a collective pledge of support for Amaechi’s ambition.

He added that the decision does not force any member to act against personal belief. He noted that other aspirants still have supporters within the zone and that the forum’s action does not block anyone from pursuing the ticket.

The clarification followed an earlier statement issued by some South-South leaders of the party, signed by the Zonal Publicity Secretary, which denied that any endorsement took place.

In response, the National Vice Chairman insisted that the support was openly expressed during the meeting and followed due process within the forum.

Amaechi is among the leading figures seeking the ADC presidential ticket ahead of the 2027 election.

Other notable aspirants include former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar and the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi.

The eventual nominee is expected to face President Bola Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress in the next general election.

The South-South Forum maintained that its action reflects the mood of participants at the meeting and forms part of ongoing consultations within the party as it prepares for the 2027 contest.