Why Atiku Abubakar Did Not Select a South-East Running Mate
Kenneth Okonkwo, a senior figure in the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has clarified the reasoning behind Atiku Abubakar’s decision not to choose a vice presidential candidate from the South‑East geopolitical zone for the party’s 2027 ticket.
He stated that, after the departure of former Anambra State governor Peter Obi from the ADC, the South‑East was left in a state of confusion. Okonkwo emphasized that his earlier comment about preferring a South‑East candidate was a geopolitical observation, not an endorsement of any particular individual.
According to Okonkwo, the Electoral Act of 2026 imposes a strict eligibility requirement: a person must have been a party member for at least 21 days before the primary election. Because many potential South‑East candidates did not meet this threshold, they were legally barred from contention.
Okonkwo also dismissed rumors that he opposed the selection of former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi as the ADC’s vice presidential nominee. He affirmed that Amaechi emerged as the party’s choice and that all loyal members should respect that decision.
He noted that Amaechi secured over 500 votes in the primary, demonstrating significant grassroots support. Alienating such a base, he argued, would be counterproductive, especially when legal constraints limited the pool of eligible South‑East aspirants.
Okonkwo urged the party to engage with South‑East stakeholders, transparently explaining the legal limitations and seeking their input on how best to represent the zone’s interests moving forward.
He added that Atiku Abubakar was abroad when the initial announcement was made. Upon his return, the presidential candidate halted the process, initiated dialogue with various party factions, and ensured that the final decision reflected broader consensus.
In summary, the ADC’s vice presidential selection was shaped by statutory eligibility rules, the need to honor existing party support, and a commitment to inclusive consultation — not by a personal bias against any region.
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