Former Minister of Transportation and ex-Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi, on Tuesday rejected the outcome of the African Democratic Congress presidential primary held across Nigeria, alleging that the exercise was affected by irregularities and denied many members the opportunity to vote.
Amaechi made his position known shortly after results from parts of the country began to show former Vice President Atiku Abubakar leading the race. The primary, organised to choose the ADC presidential candidate for the 2027 general election, also featured former banker Mohammed Hayatu-Deen among the major contenders.
According to Amaechi, his decision to reject the process was based on reports and observations suggesting that a large number of party members could not participate in the election. He maintained that he had entered the contest with the understanding that the process would be open, credible and conducted fairly.
The former minister argued that any election process that leaves out a large section of party members cannot reflect the true choice of the people. He said the values the ADC had projected as an alternative political platform should be reflected in its internal activities.
Amaechi also expressed concern that practices often criticised in national elections were appearing within the party’s own primary exercise. He said political organisations seeking public trust should maintain standards that allow equal participation and transparent outcomes.
The ADC conducted the presidential primary through a nationwide direct voting system across states and the Federal Capital Territory. While final nationwide results had not yet been officially announced by the party leadership at the time, early figures circulating from several states showed Atiku ahead, with Amaechi trailing and Hayatu-Deen also in contention.
The development adds fresh tension to the party’s presidential selection process and may affect internal discussions as political parties continue preparations ahead of the 2027 general election.
Amaechi has yet to announce whether he will pursue any formal challenge or take additional political steps following his rejection of the process.