By Olatunbosun Obafemi
Port Harcourt, Nigeria – A senior member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State and close associate of former Transportation Minister Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, Chief Eze Chukwuemeka Eze, has suggested that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu may not contest the 2027 presidential election, citing mounting national challenges and potential international developments.
In a statement made available to the media, Eze said the political landscape ahead of 2027 remains unpredictable and warned that the outcome of the next presidential race could defy expectations. He hinted at the possible emergence of Amaechi as a leading candidate, revealing that many Nigerians are already urging the former Rivers governor to step forward.
“People reach out to me daily, asking whether Amaechi will contest in 2027 or what his political direction might be,” Eze said. “There is growing concern among Nigerians over the state of the nation and increasing demand for credible leadership.”
Eze, a former National Publicity Secretary of the now-defunct New People’s Democratic Party (nPDP), did not hold back in his criticism of the current administration. He accused the Tinubu-led government of focusing more on securing a second term than addressing urgent national issues such as the deteriorating economy, widespread hunger, insecurity, and escalating violent crimes.
“A government that prioritizes manipulating the system to retain power in 2027 has already failed,” Eze said. “The suffering in the land should give any responsible government pause, yet what we see is an obsession with power retention rather than performance.”
He further claimed that President Tinubu’s chances of seeking re-election could be jeopardized by external factors, particularly if the United States decides to release what he called an “alleged file” on the president – a reference he did not elaborate on but which suggests possible legal or diplomatic complications.
“2027 will come with many surprises,” Eze remarked. “President Tinubu may not even be in a position to contest if the USA acts on its alleged dossier.”
Turning to Amaechi’s credentials, Eze described him as a national asset with an exemplary public service record, adding that many believe he has the leadership qualities necessary to steer the country out of its current challenges.
“Amaechi remains a pride to Nigeria. His sacrifices for national progress are well documented, and he has what it takes to offer the direction and leadership Nigeria desperately needs,” Eze said.
While neither Amaechi nor his aides have publicly declared any intention to run in 2027, political observers note that speculation around his potential candidacy is gaining traction, particularly among opposition voices within the APC and other political blocs dissatisfied with the current administration.
