By Femi Anamelechi
A former governor of Imo State, Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha, has ruled out accepting any vice-presidential arrangement under the African Democratic Congress (ADC), insisting that his political focus remains the actualization of an Igbo presidency in the 2027 Presidential 6555 former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives is said to have made it clear in political discussions and coalition engagements that he would not serve as a running mate to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar or any other presidential aspirant within the opposition alliance.Ihedioha’s position, as reflected in recent political reports and coalition commentary, centres on his belief that the South-East should not be confined to deputy roles in National politics. He is understood to have argued that the Igbo presidency project remains a key political aspiration for the region, that accepting a vice-presidential slot could weaken that objective, and that his political alignment is guided by what he describes as the broader interest of Ndi Igbo.The substance of his position has been consistently reflected in multiple political accounts and party-related discussions.The ADC has become a central platform for opposition realignment ahead of 2027, attracting major figures including Atiku Abubakar, Rotimi Amaechi and others. However, the coalition has been marked by internal disputes over presidential zoning, contestations between northern and southern blocs, and tension over whether consensus or open primaries should determine the flag bearer.
Recently Atiku Abubakar emerged as the party’s presidential candidate following a contested primary, further intensifying debates within the opposition space. Shortly after his emergence speculation became rife that Ihedioha may emerge as the vice presidential candidate.Ihedioha, who governed Imo State briefly between 2019 and 2020 before a Supreme Court judgment removed him from office, has remained active in opposition politics.The former lno state Governor affirmed his commment to the ADC coalition structure despite political shifts involving figures like Peter Obi, Rt. Hon.Emeka lhedioha continues to advocate for inclusive governance and South-East political relevance, and has denied allegations of working against Peter Obi’s political ambition.His reported rejection of a vice-presidential slot adds to the broader national debate over South-East inclusion in top-tier political positions, opposition unity ahead of the 2027 elections, and whether coalition arrangements can accommodate regional aspirations without fragmentation.The Former Deputy Speaker’s stance reflects a clear and consistent statement that he is unwilling to accept a vice-presidential role that does not advance the long-standing push for an Igbo presidency. The development adds another layer of complexity to ongoing coalition negotiations as Nigeria edges closer to the 2027 Presidential election.
