South-South ADC Leaders Reject Claim of Endorsement for Amaechi’s 2027 Presidential Bid

The South-South zonal leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has firmly countered remarks attributed to former national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), John Odigie-Oyegun, over the alleged endorsement of Rotimi Amaechi for the party’s 2027 presidential ticket.

The clarification follows claims that leaders from the South-South region had unanimously resolved to support Amaechi’s ambition after a consultative meeting. However, zonal officials insist that while discussions were held and intentions declared, no formal endorsement was granted, describing reports of such backing as misleading.

Disputed Claims Over Regional Endorsement

The controversy arose after Odigie-Oyegun, now a chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), stated that a unanimous decision had been reached during a regional meeting to support Amaechi’s presidential aspiration. According to him, the former minister used the opportunity to formally inform leaders of his intention to seek the party’s nomination, receiving full backing from the gathering.

Odigie-Oyegun was quoted as expressing satisfaction that Amaechi had chosen to brief the region and claimed that the leaders resolved to give him all the support required in pursuit of his ambition. The remarks quickly generated reactions within ADC circles, particularly among stakeholders from the South-South zone.

However, in a statement issued on Saturday, the zonal publicity secretary, Mabel Oboh, rejected the assertion of endorsement. She described the claim as inaccurate and inconsistent with what transpired at the February 27 meeting held at Odigie-Oyegun’s residence in Benin City.

ADC Zonal Leadership Insists on Due Process

Oboh explained that the meeting, which had in attendance party elders and representatives from Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo, and Rivers states, was primarily convened to strengthen internal unity, promote grassroots mobilisation, and strategise for future elections.

According to her, while Amaechi formally informed the leaders of his intention to seek the ADC presidential nomination, no motion was moved to endorse him. She stressed that no vote was taken and no resolution was adopted in favour of any aspirant.

“Consultation is not endorsement, and courtesy is not coronation,” the statement read, emphasising that receiving a prominent son of the region who chose to formally declare his intention could not be interpreted as an official declaration of support. The zonal leadership further maintained that candidate selection within the ADC remains the prerogative of its recognised organs and members, in line with democratic principles.

Oboh also noted that suggesting an endorsement undermines the ADC commitment to internal democracy. She described it as inconceivable that a seasoned political figure like Odigie-Oyegun would disregard due process, given his long-standing experience in party administration.

Broader Implications for the 2027 Race

The development underscores early political manoeuvring ahead of the 2027 general elections. Although formal campaigns remain distant, consultations and strategic alignments are gradually shaping conversations within major and emerging political parties.

For the ADC, the disagreement highlights the importance of maintaining clarity in internal communications as it positions itself for national relevance. Observers note that how the ADC manages internal debates and candidate selection processes may significantly influence its credibility among voters seeking alternatives to dominant political platforms.

As political actors continue consultations nationwide, the ADC’s South-South leadership has reiterated its commitment to transparency, fairness, and established procedures in determining its eventual presidential candidate.