“I have no intention of being anyone’s running mate,” former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi has said, reiterating his goal to contest the presidency in 2027.

Speaking through his media aide, David Iyofor, Amaechi dismissed speculation that he could serve as a vice-presidential candidate to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar or be part of any joint ticket. “Amaechi is not seeking to be running mate to anybody. He does not intend to be a presidential running mate to anybody and will not,” Iyofor said.

The clarification follows comments by Atiku’s ally, media entrepreneur Dele Momodu, who suggested that Amaechi might be considered if 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi decides to run independently. Momodu said, “A lot of people are underrating Amaechi. Amaechi single-handedly handed power to Buhari… If Obi does not make up his mind or chooses to run alone, then I believe the mantle might fall on Rotimi Amaechi.”

Iyofor stressed that Amaechi is focused on securing the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential ticket, noting that he believes it is Southern Nigeria’s turn to produce the next president.

“For emphasis, Amaechi is running to be President of Nigeria and not to be a running mate to anybody. Politicians are kindly advised to leave Amaechi’s name out of any discussion for presidential running mate,” Iyofor added.

Amaechi, who contested the All Progressives Congress presidential ticket in 2023, formally defected to the ADC earlier this year and has declared his intention to seek the party’s nomination for the 2027 elections.