As the African Democratic Congress (ADC) concludes its primary elections, political attention is now shifting to a crucial question: who will emerge as the running mate to the party’s presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, ahead of the 2027 general election?
Atiku, who previously selected Mr. Peter Obi as his running mate in 2019 and former Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa in the 2023 presidential election, is once again faced with a strategic decision that could significantly influence the electoral landscape.
Following his emergence as ADC’s presidential flag bearer after securing the highest number of votes at the party’s primaries, speculation has intensified over the possible region and personality that may complete the ticket.
Among the names reportedly under consideration from the South East are the Director General of the World Trade Organization, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, and former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Emeka Ihedioha.
However, political analyst Sumner Sambo, Director of Politics at Arise News, stated that Okonjo-Iweala has distanced herself from the speculation, citing her commitment to her current global role.
According to Sambo, “Okonjo-Iweala is not willing to actually leave a lucrative job as DG of the World Trade Organisation to actually consider that.
“She’s made it known to them, and that is understandable because she just resumed in September last year, and she has a tenure that will run for a second term till 2029.”
Okonjo-Iweala made history on March 1, 2021, as both the first woman and first African to lead the World Trade Organization. Her second term began in September 2023 and runs through 2029.
Meanwhile, Ihedioha remains one of the most discussed political figures in Atiku’s orbit. The former Imo governor and ADC member is seen by many as a viable option, particularly if the party seeks stronger South East representation.
Attention has also turned to the South South region, where former Rivers State Governor and ex Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, is being mentioned as a possible contender for the vice presidential slot.
Atiku reportedly held a private meeting with Amaechi earlier this week, further fueling speculation about a potential alliance.
Political observers remain divided on whether a South East candidate would substantially improve Atiku’s electoral chances. APC chieftain Sogbeye Eli argued that selecting a running mate from the region may not significantly shift voter sentiment due to Peter Obi’s continued influence in the South East.
“Atiku has no room for votes from a vice-presidential candidate from both the South East and South West,” he said.
Adding another twist to the conversation, ADC chieftain Dele Momodu recently shared a campaign style flyer on social media portraying himself as Atiku’s running mate, with the caption: “The Attraction of Atiku Abubakar/Dele Momodu ticket” and “The right choice for a greater Nigeria.”
Responding to the growing speculation, Atiku’s Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, emphasized that the decision would be guided by competence rather than symbolism.
“On the question of the Vice Presidential slot, it is far too early to speculate on specific regions or individuals.
“That decision will ultimately be guided by what best serves the national interest and strengthens the mission of rescuing Nigeria.
“What I can say with confidence is that Alhaji Atiku Abubakar understands the enormous responsibilities of leadership. He appreciates that the challenges facing Nigeria today require a competent, experienced, and capable team.
“Therefore, I do not expect the choice of a running mate to be based on symbolism or the outdated notion of a ‘spare tyre.’ Nigeria needs a governing team, not a sole administrator.
“The Vice President must be someone who can contribute meaningfully to governance, policy formulation, economic management, national cohesion, and the overall task of rebuilding the country.
“When the time comes, Nigerians can expect a decision driven by competence, capacity, and the national interest.”
Legal practitioner Maduabuchi Idam offered a contrasting perspective, arguing that a South East running mate may represent Atiku’s strongest strategic option.
According to Idam, such a move could promote national balance while helping the ADC candidate challenge Peter Obi’s dominance in the region.
“Atiku’s strongest option may be to choose a running mate from the South East if the objectives are equity, national cohesion, and political balance in the event of victory.
“The South East would need meaningful representation in his administration to foster a greater sense of inclusion and national belonging.
“A northern presidential ticket without South East representation is likely to attract criticism and apathy from a significant segment of the South East electorate.
“Furthermore, if Atiku intends to pose a serious challenge to the influence of Peter Obi in the region, selecting a running mate from the South East could be a strategic necessity.
“Without such a move, securing the constitutionally required spread of votes, including a substantial share from the region, may prove difficult in the 2027 election.”
