Senator Umeh Clarifies Obi’s Visit to Amaechi, Explains Why Atiku Should drop for Peter obi.

Senator Victor Umeh has clarified the purpose of Peter Obi’s recent visit to former Rivers Governor Rotimi Amaechi’s Abuja residence, saying it was part of ongoing consultations within the anti-Tinubu coalition ahead of 2027.

Speaking after details of the weekend meeting emerged, Umeh confirmed he accompanied Obi alongside former Imo Governor Achike Udenwa. He said the delegation *appealed to Amaechi to support Obi’s bid to emerge as the African Democratic Congress presidential flagbearer*. 

According to a source privy to the discussion, *Amaechi “politely rejected the request”*, insisting he was “serious about contesting in the 2027 presidential election” and not grandstanding. Photos and video of Obi’s visit circulated online but neither leader addressed the media afterward. 

Why Atiku Should Step Down, Umeh Explains

Umeh argued that fairness and the South’s turn in the zoning arrangement make Atiku Abubakar’s candidacy untenable for 2027. Both Obi and Amaechi, he noted, have pledged to serve only one term if elected, aligning with the agitation that the South should hold power until 2031 before it rotates back North. 

“President Tinubu, a southerner, will finish his first term in 2027. The South should complete eight years. That is why the conversation is with Amaechi, not Atiku,” Umeh said. He added that Atiku’s “obdurate refusal to respect the rotation principle” in 2023 fractured the PDP and should not be repeated. 

The ADC Ticket Race

Atiku, Obi, and Amaechi have all indicated interest in the ADC ticket as the opposition seeks a united front against the APC. Political analyst Prof Okey Ikechukwu warns the coalition must prepare for a tough contest, noting that “none of them joined without a personal agenda”.

For now, Amaechi has ruled out stepping down for Obi, while Umeh maintains that a southern consensus is critical. “If there is going to be consensus, three or so would have to step down for one,” said convener Umar Ardo, predicting Atiku would win any open primary.

Talks within the coalition continue as 2027 draws closer.