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Following the conclusion of the African Democratic Congress, ADC, presidential primaries, political attention is now focused on the individual who will emerge as the running mate to the party’s presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar.

Atiku previously selected the current Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, presidential candidate, Peter Obi, as his vice-presidential candidate during the 2019 election. In the 2023 presidential race, he chose former Delta State governor, Ifeanyi Okowa, as his running mate.

A few weeks ago, the former Vice President secured the ADC presidential ticket after defeating other contenders in the party’s primary election.

Reports indicate that Atiku is considering candidates from the South-East geopolitical zone, with notable figures such as the Director-General of the World Trade Organization, WTO, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, and former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Emeka Ihedioha, frequently mentioned in political discussions.

Amid the growing speculation, Arise News Director of Politics, Sumner Sambo, disclosed that Okonjo-Iweala had distanced herself from any consideration for the vice-presidential slot, citing her commitment to her current international position.

Okonjo-Iweala became the Director-General of the WTO on March 1, 2021, making history as the first African and first woman to head the organization.

She commenced her second tenure in September 2023, with her current term expected to run until 2029.

Sambo stated that she had personally conveyed her decision to Atiku’s camp.

According to him, “Okonjo-Iweala is not willing to actually leave a lucrative job as DG of the World Trade Organisation to actually consider that.

“She’s made it known to them, and that is understandable because she just resumed in September last year, and she has a tenure that will run for a second term till 2029.”

Emeka Ihedioha emerges as possible option

The former Imo State governor and ex-Speaker of the House of Representatives remains one of the prominent names linked with the vice-presidential position.

Ihedioha, who is currently a member of the ADC, is believed to be among the individuals being discreetly considered by Atiku as discussions continue behind the scenes.

Attention also shifts to the South-South

Although many political observers believe Atiku may settle for a candidate from the South-East, there are indications that the former Vice President is also weighing options from the South-South region.

One of the names repeatedly mentioned is former Minister of Transportation and two-term Rivers State governor, Rotimi Amaechi.

Atiku reportedly held a private meeting with Amaechi on Monday, though details of the engagement were not made public.

The development has fueled speculation that the discussion may have been connected to the search for a suitable running mate.

South-East option may not guarantee votes – APC chieftain

An All Progressives Congress, APC, stalwart, Sogbeye Eli, argued that choosing a vice-presidential candidate from the South-East may not necessarily translate into electoral gains for Atiku because of Peter Obi’s influence in the region.

Speaking on the issue, he said, “Atiku has no room for votes from a vice-presidential candidate from both the South-East and South-West.”

Dele Momodu sparks fresh conversation

Meanwhile, ADC chieftain and former presidential aspirant, Dele Momodu, recently generated reactions after sharing a campaign-style flyer on social media portraying himself as Atiku’s running mate.

Alongside the image, Momodu wrote: “The Attraction of Atiku Abubakar/Dele Momodu ticket”, “The right choice for a greater Nigeria.”

Atiku will choose competence over symbolism – Aide

Responding to the growing speculation, Atiku’s Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, insisted that the choice of a running mate would be based on competence and national interest rather than political tokenism.

Speaking with ZINGTIE, Shaibu said: “On the question of the Vice Presidential slot, it is far too early to speculate on specific regions or individuals.

“That decision will ultimately be guided by what best serves the national interest and strengthens the mission of rescuing Nigeria.

“What I can say with confidence is that Alhaji Atiku Abubakar understands the enormous responsibilities of leadership. He appreciates that the challenges facing Nigeria today require a competent, experienced, and capable team.

“Therefore, I do not expect the choice of a running mate to be based on symbolism or the outdated notion of a “spare tyre.” Nigeria needs a governing team, not a sole administrator.

“The Vice President must be someone who can contribute meaningfully to governance, policy formulation, economic management, national cohesion, and the overall task of rebuilding the country.

“When the time comes, Nigerians can expect a decision driven by competence, capacity, and the national interest.”

Lawyer identifies Atiku’s strongest political path

Adding his voice to the debate, legal practitioner Maduabuchi Idam maintained that selecting a running mate from the South-East may represent Atiku’s strongest strategic move.

According to him, such a decision would promote inclusiveness while also helping Atiku compete more effectively against Peter Obi’s influence in the region.

He stated: “Atiku’s strongest option may be to choose a running mate from the South-East if the objectives are equity, national cohesion, and political balance in the event of victory.

“The South-East would need meaningful representation in his administration to foster a greater sense of inclusion and national belonging.

“A northern presidential ticket without South-East representation is likely to attract criticism and apathy from a significant segment of the South-East electorate.

“Furthermore, if Atiku intends to pose a serious challenge to the influence of Peter Obi in the region, selecting a running mate from the South-East could be a strategic necessity.

“Without such a move, securing the constitutionally required spread of votes, including a substantial share from the region, may prove difficult in the 2027 election.”

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