Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha, former governor of Imo State, has emerged as a potential running mate to Atiku Abubakar, presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), according to a media report.
The report said Atiku has commenced consultations ahead of the selection of his Vice-Presidential candidate for the 2027 election.
Atiku secured the ADC presidential ticket on Wednesday amid objections from Rt. Hon. Chibuike Amaechi, former minister of transportation, and Mohammed Hayatu-Deen, who questioned the credibility of the primary election.
In his acceptance speech, Atiku called on both contenders to work with him in what he described as a mission to rescue Nigeria from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The former Vice-President subsequently visited Amaechi at his Abuja residence in a move seen as part of efforts to unite the party after the primary.
According to the report, sources close to Atiku favour a running mate from the South-East, which they consider strategically important ahead of the 2027 election.
The report added that the Vice-Presidential slot had initially been reserved for Peter Obi before he left the ADC for the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).
Ihedioha is now being considered for the position because of his influence in the South-East and his role during the ADC presidential primary.
“He actually played a major role in ensuring that the region was delivered for the former vice president in the just-concluded presidential primary of the party,” an unnamed party source was quoted as saying.
The report also claimed that some party leaders believe Amaechi may not be able to deliver sufficient political support from Rivers state and the wider South-South region.
“Naturally, Atiku is looking towards the South-East for a running mate. Amaechi might have been considered if he had control of his region or even his state. It would amount to political suicide to pick someone who may not even be able to deliver his ward,” the source said.
Paul Ibe, special adviser to Atiku, confirmed that consultations on the Vice-Presidential slot were ongoing, saying: “As for the issue of a running mate, consultations are still ongoing. Rotimi Amaechi is not being considered.
“Atiku Abubakar’s visit to Amaechi has nothing to do with the vice-presidential slot. You are also aware that Amaechi himself has denied the speculation.
“On the other names being mentioned, I do not want to speculate at this point. When the party reaches a decision, Nigerians will be informed.”
The report said the ADC is expected to conclude consultations ahead of the deadline set by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for the submission of candidates for the 2027 election.
