Atiku narrows VP shopping to South East

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By Madu Obi

Former Vice President and the African Democratic Congress, ADC, candidate for the 2027 election, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar has reportedly narrowed his search for running mate to the South East geopolitical zone.

Atiku clinched ADC’s presidential ticket on Wednesday, and later visited one of the contestants for the ticket, Chief Rotimi Amaechi, fueling speculation that he might be offering him the VP ticket.

However , it was gathered weekend that Atiku and top ADC officials are looking in the direction of the South-East for the VP slot because , according to a source, the region is viewed as Atiku's natural political ally and strategically vital for 2027 poll.

Already , former governor of Imo State, Emeka Ihedioha is being tipped as a potential nominee.

The former deputy speaker of the House of Representatives was among those who stayed in ADC while many South-East politicians followed Mr Peter Obi to the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, and it was gathered that he played a major role in delivering the region to Atiku at the recent ADC primary.

“He, Ihedioha, actually played a major role in ensuring that the region was delivered for the former vice president.

Naturally, Atiku is looking towards the South East for a running mate. Amaechi might have been considered if he had control of his region or even his state. It would amount to political suicide to pick someone who may not even be able to deliver his state", a top official of ADC said.

According to Atiku’s camp, consultations are ongoing and ADC will meet INEC’s deadline for submitting presidential candidates.