Former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, has declared that Nigeria’s next president should emerge from the South, emphasizing that leadership must be based on competence, not regional entitlement.
Speaking in an interview on Channels Television, the former Rivers State governor framed the 2027 elections as a critical battle between ordinary Nigerians and the political elite.
Describing the election as a defining moment, Amaechi urged citizens to unite behind a movement for equity and accountability. “Nigeria belongs to all of us. We cannot sustain a democracy where one region dominates while others are locked out. The South has capable leaders. It’s time to restore balance and deliver real results,” he said.
Amaechi, who has aligned with the African Democratic Congress as part of a broader opposition coalition, revealed plans for a new political platform—the African Democratic Alliance. He accused the Independent National Electoral Commission of deliberately stifling its registration. “INEC is deliberately closing the political space to prevent credible alternatives like ADA from emerging,” he stated.
The former minister argued that the South has been sidelined for too long and possesses leaders with the experience to govern effectively. “The South is ready to lead. We’re building a platform that gives every Nigerian a voice, and hope,” he said.
Reflecting on his tenure as Rivers governor, Amaechi highlighted his achievements in security, education, and rural development. “If I were president today, Nigerians would not be this hungry. I built schools in every village with computer access, created jobs through agricultural programs, and ensured transparency in spending. I’ve shown what’s possible with the right leadership,” he asserted.
He also criticized the ruling All Progressives Congress for economic mismanagement, stating, “This administration is worse than the previous one. People are hungry. Insecurity is rising. The cost of living is out of control.”
While not officially declaring his candidacy, Amaechi expressed readiness to lead. “This isn’t about me, it’s about Nigeria. Once the platform is in place, we’ll talk about who runs. But yes, I am ready and capable to lead this country.”
