ADC spokesperson Okonkwo clarifies Amaechi VP support, cites South-East eligibility rules
Kenneth Okonkwo, spokesperson for ADC presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar, clarified today on Channels TV that he does not oppose Rotimi Amaechi as the party's vice presidential candidate, countering earlier reports of his opposition. Okonkwo explained his initial stance was based on geopolitical zoning principles advocating for a South-East candidate to fill the VP slot, but acknowledged that no individuals from the South-East were eligible due to not being registered ADC members 21 days before the primary as required by the Electoral Act 2026. He specifically noted that Amaechi, who received over 500 votes in the ADC primary, is the party's choice and everybody that is a loyal party member should support it. Okonkwo noted that Atiku Abubakar, who was abroad when the ticket was announced, later returned and engaged in dialogue with stakeholders, halting everything and calling all parties to address concerns. This clarification resolves internal ADC tensions as the party prepares for the 2027 elections, highlighting how party membership rules and zoning agreements shape candidate selection in Nigerian politics. As parties strategize for 2027, how should they balance zoning agreements with electoral viability when selecting candidates?