2027: ADC South-South Denies Endorsing Amaechi

The South-South leadership of the African Democratic Congress on Saturday in Benin City denied claims that it had endorsed former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi for the 2027 presidential election.

The denial followed reports that emerged after a meeting held on February 27 at the residence of the party’s national leader, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun.

In a statement issued by the South-South Zonal Publicity Secretary, Mabel Oboh, the party said the gathering brought together elders, stakeholders and representatives from Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo and Rivers states.

According to the statement, the purpose of the meeting was to discuss party unity, grassroots mobilisation and preparations for future elections, not to adopt any presidential aspirant.

The zonal leadership explained that Amaechi attended the meeting to inform leaders from his region about his intention to seek the party’s presidential ticket.

It said this step was part of routine consultation and should not be interpreted as an endorsement. The statement added that no motion was moved, no resolution was passed and no vote was taken in support of any aspirant during or after the meeting.

The party maintained that endorsing a candidate at a zonal consultation would go against its internal democratic process.

It said the power to choose candidates lies with the party’s constitutional organs and members, not with a few leaders at a regional meeting.

The statement also defended Odigie-Oyegun, describing him as a long-standing advocate of due process within party structures. It noted that his political background makes it unlikely that he would act outside established procedures.

The zonal leadership expressed concern over reports suggesting that an endorsement took place, stating that such claims could create confusion and tension within the party. It urged media organisations to verify information before publication.

Amaechi had earlier announced his intention to contest for the presidency under the ADC platform, but the South-South leaders insisted that no formal backing was given to him at the Benin meeting.

They reaffirmed their commitment to party unity and due process as preparations for the 2027 elections continue.