By Abigail Philip David
A coalition of youth activists and entertainment figures, operating under the banner of Igbo Youth Celebrities for Rotimi Amaechi, in partnership with the Southern Celebrities Guild, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi to step aside in the 2027 presidential race and support former Rivers State Governor and ex-Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi.
The group, which includes young political enthusiasts and prominent celebrities from Southern Nigeria, argued that Amaechi is the most qualified and experienced candidate from the region. They pointed to his extensive track record, highlighting his tenure as Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, his two-term governorship, and his eight years as Minister of Transportation, as proof of his deep understanding of governance and national development.
“Our nation is at a critical crossroads, and what we need now is a leader with proven experience, vision, and the ability to drive people-oriented governance,” the group stated. “Rt. Hon. Rotimi Amaechi has consistently shown competence, leadership, and the political will to implement reforms. He is the best-prepared candidate to lead Nigeria into a new era of economic growth and stability.”
Their call for Tinubu and Obi—both seen as top contenders in 2027—to rally behind Amaechi signals a shift in political alignments as the race for Nigeria’s presidency heats up. While Tinubu holds the presidency and Obi remains a strong opposition figure, the group believes that a unified southern support for Amaechi could significantly reshape the country’s political landscape.
As the 2027 elections draw closer, this appeal adds another dimension to the unfolding political drama. Whether Tinubu and Obi will consider stepping aside remains uncertain, but one thing is clear—Amaechi’s supporters are making their voices heard.