The presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Atiku Abubakar, has commenced consultations to select a running mate for the 2027 general election, with indications that the party is considering a candidate from Nigeria’s South-East region.
The move follows Atiku’s victory at the ADC presidential primary held on Wednesday, a result that has been challenged by fellow aspirants Rotimi Amaechi and Mohammed Hayatu-Deen, who described the exercise as lacking credibility.
Despite the dispute, Atiku has called for unity within the party and recently met with Amaechi in Abuja in an effort to strengthen internal cooperation. However, sources said discussions during the visit did not include the vice-presidential slot.
Amaechi, speaking during an interview with media entrepreneur Chude Jideonwo, maintained his criticism of the primary process and dismissed reports linking him to the running mate position.
According to party insiders, Atiku and key ADC stakeholders are leaning towards the South-East in their search for a vice-presidential candidate, viewing the region as strategically important for the 2027 elections.
Among those reportedly being considered is Emeka Ihedioha, who is said to have played a significant role in mobilising support for Atiku during the presidential primary.
 Unlike several South-East politicians who left the ADC alongside Peter Obi, Ihedioha remained within the party and has continued to wield influence in the region.
Sources close to the former vice president also suggested that Amaechi’s perceived lack of political control in Rivers State and the wider South-South region may have weakened his chances of being selected.
Atiku’s Special Adviser, Paul Ibe, confirmed that consultations on the party’s presidential ticket are ongoing. While he ruled out Amaechi as a potential running mate, he declined to comment on reports linking Ihedioha to the position.
Meanwhile, officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) have reiterated that political parties are expected to comply with the electoral timetable, which sets August 29, 2026, as the deadline for the submission of presidential and National Assembly candidates.
The composition of the ADC presidential ticket is expected to attract increased political attention in the coming months as preparations for the 2027 general election gather momentum.
