Former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, has made a passionate appeal for Nigeria’s next president to emerge from the South, emphasizing that the criteria for leadership must be rooted in competence, capacity, and character, not in regional entitlement or political domination.
In a candid interview on Channels Television on Thursday, the former Rivers State governor argued that the 2027 general election would represent a pivotal moment in the country’s democratic journey, framing it as a struggle between everyday Nigerians and the entrenched political class.
Amaechi made it clear that he believes the time has come for Southern Nigeria to take the reins of leadership again, stressing that such a shift should be based on merit, not on sectional sentiments. “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 declared.
He described the upcoming presidential race as a departure from traditional party-based politics, calling on citizens across the country to align themselves with a fresh national movement that emphasizes justice, accountability, and a break from the status quo.
“This election is no longer about party loyalty. It is Nigerians versus the political elite. If you want change, real change, then it’s time to rise. The South is ready to lead. We’re building a platform that gives every Nigerian a voice and hope,” Amaechi stated.
The former minister also confirmed his alignment with the African Democratic Congress (ADC), which recently adopted former Senate President David Mark and former Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola as interim national chairman and secretary, respectively.
In the same breath, he revealed that the coalition was also working towards the registration of a new political platform, the African Democratic Alliance (ADA), which he claimed is being unfairly obstructed by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
According to Amaechi, the electoral body is deliberately stalling the registration process to block credible alternatives from emerging in the political space. “INEC is deliberately closing the political space to prevent credible alternatives like ADA from emerging. The South has been sidelined for too long. We have leaders with experience and integrity. It’s time we take the lead again,” he said.
Reflecting on his record in public service, Amaechi cited his achievements as governor of Rivers State, claiming he brought insecurity under control within six months of assuming office.
He also highlighted his administration’s efforts in expanding educational access, promoting rural development, and prioritizing transparency in public spending. “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 stated.
Amaechi didn’t mince words in criticizing the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), a party he once helped bring to national prominence. He accused the current administration of mismanaging the economy and exacerbating the hardships of ordinary Nigerians. “This administration is worse than the previous one. People are hungry. Insecurity is rising. The cost of living is out of control,” he lamented.
Although he stopped short of making a formal declaration for the presidency, Amaechi did not shy away from hinting at his readiness. “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,” he affirmed.
His comments have further fueled speculation about his potential return to the frontline of Nigeria’s political race, and his role in shaping a united opposition ahead of the 2027 general elections.
What you should know
Rotimi Amaechi, former Minister of Transportation and ex-governor of Rivers State, has voiced strong support for Southern leadership in Nigeria ahead of the 2027 election.
He criticized both the APC and INEC, backed a new opposition coalition using ADC, and hinted at his readiness to contest for the presidency.
