A chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Anambra State, Ndubisi Nwobu, has defended former Vice President Atiku Abubakar's selection of Rotimi Amaechi as his running mate for the 2027 presidential election. Nwobu dismissed zoning concerns, insisting that political victory depends on strategy and candidate selection rather than regional rotation.
Nwobu: Competence Over Zoning
Speaking with Legit.ng on Thursday, June 18, in Awka, Nwobu, a former deputy governorship candidate and senatorial candidate for Anambra Central, argued that Atiku's experience and understanding of Nigeria's political dynamics guided his choice. He stated, 'If you're out for a political contest, you must devise a unique approach that will give you better victory. The man, Atiku, is experienced and understands the dynamics of politics in this country.'
Nwobu emphasized that this is likely Atiku's final presidential bid, making him the best judge of the winning combination. He added, 'It is a candidate that chooses his running mate - it is not the duty of any other person to decide who runs with the presidential candidate.'
Zoning Does Not Feed Nigerians
Addressing why he supports a northern candidate over a southern presidency, Nwobu stated that 'turn by turn' politics does not put food on anyone's table. He pointed out that under President Bola Tinubu, a Southerner, Nigerians have suffered from poverty, insecurity, hardship, hunger, and inflation affecting all regions equally. 'What Nigeria and Nigerians need is a detribalised personality - the man who can turn things around for the better, and you cannot take these virtues away from Atiku Abubakar,' he said.
Nwobu expressed confidence that Atiku would win in 2027, predicting that ADC would secure at least one senatorial seat, five House of Representatives seats, and several State House of Assembly seats in Anambra.
ADC Chieftain Alleges Bias in Deregistration Ruling
Reacting to the High Court ruling ordering INEC to deregister ADC and other parties, Nwobu insisted the court lacked legal grounds. He noted that the Constitution specifies deregistration only if a party fails to secure a councillorship seat or any legislative seat. 'During the 2023 general election, ADC secured two House of Representatives seats in Kogi, and also four House of Assembly seats - two in Kogi and two in Oyo state,' he said.
Nwobu accused the judge of being misinformed or biased, especially since the Court of Appeal had directed a stay of execution on May 22, 2026. 'What we observe in Nigeria is unprecedented rascality on the side of some judiciary members. It was brought to the knowledge of the trial judge that the matter before him has been stayed by the Appeal Court, yet he proceeded to give judgement. This is a clear indication of bias, and an indication that he is dancing to the drumbeat of the APC administration, which is clearly scared of ADC and Atiku Abubakar,' he stated.
Despite expected harassment and roadblocks, Nwobu assured that ADC will be on the ballot and perform well in 2027, viewing current challenges as stepping stones to victory.
Atiku Hails Appeal Court Ruling on ADC
Earlier, Atiku Abubakar welcomed the Court of Appeal's decision to stay execution of the deregistration judgment. The appellate court faulted the federal high court judge for proceeding despite a prior stay order. Atiku warned against attempts to weaken democracy through judicial interference.
