2027: Pressure mounts on Atiku over choice of running mate

With the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential primary now concluded, attention has shifted to a crucial next phase in the party’s 2027 election strategy: the choice of a running mate for its presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar.

Atiku, who recently emerged as the ADC flag bearer after securing the highest votes in the party’s primary, is now under growing pressure to balance political strategy, regional interests and national appeal in selecting his vice-presidential candidate.

In previous election cycles, Atiku’s choices have reflected different political calculations. In 2019, he ran alongside former Anambra State governor and current Labour Party-leaning politician Peter Obi, while in 2023 he selected former Delta State governor Ifeanyi Okowa as his running mate.

Now, insiders say the ADC candidate is again considering a mix of technocratic credibility and political influence, with strong indications that the South-East may play a decisive role in his decision.

Among the names being discussed is former Minister of Finance and World Trade Organisation Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, whose international profile and economic reputation are seen as major assets to any national ticket. However, sources close to her reportedly say she is not willing to leave her current position before the end of her tenure, which runs until 2029.

Another name gaining quiet attention within political circles is former Speaker of the House of Representatives and ex-Imo State governor Emeka Ihedioha, who is also said to be under consideration within ADC strategic discussions.

There are also growing speculations about a possible South-South option, with former Rivers State governor and ex-Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi reportedly featuring in internal consultations following recent closed-door engagements with Atiku’s camp.

However, the conversation has not been limited to regional balancing alone. Political observers say the choice of running mate could significantly shape Atiku’s electoral fortunes in 2027, especially given the strong regional influence of rival candidates and shifting alliances across the country.

Some analysts argue that a South-East running mate may not automatically translate into electoral gains for Atiku due to the influence of competing political figures in the region, while others insist it remains his strongest path to national cohesion and constitutional spread of votes.

Atiku’s camp, however, has pushed back on speculation, insisting that the eventual decision will be guided strictly by competence and national interest rather than sentiment or regional tokenism.

According to Atiku’s Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, the party is focused on building a capable governing team rather than a symbolic arrangement.

He said the vice-presidential slot would not be treated as a “spare tyre” position but as a core part of governance, stressing that the priority is finding someone who can contribute meaningfully to policy formulation, economic management and national cohesion.

Meanwhile, political activity around the ADC has intensified, with various interest groups, commentators and party stakeholders pushing different regional and political arguments ahead of the final decision.

As the 2027 political season gathers momentum, Atiku’s choice of running mate is increasingly shaping up as one of the most consequential decisions in the emerging presidential race.

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