Rotimi Amaechi has dismissed calls for a consensus candidate within the African Democratic Congress (ADC), insisting that the party must conduct a transparent and competitive primary election.
Speaking amid ongoing internal discussions, Amaechi argued that imposing a consensus candidate would undermine democratic principles, stressing that party members should be allowed to decide their flagbearer through a credible voting process.
“There must be a primary election in the ADC,” he said. “I don’t agree with those who say there should be a consensus candidate.”
The former minister also pointed to political developments in West Africa to support his stance, noting that younger leadership is gaining ground across the region. Referencing recent events in Benin Republic, he highlighted the election of a 49-year-old leader as a sign of shifting political dynamics.
Amaechi, who described himself as the youngest among the current aspirants at 60, suggested that leadership should not be restricted by backroom agreements but opened up through fair competition.
His remarks come as debates intensify within the ADC over the process for selecting its candidate, with party stakeholders divided between proponents of consensus arrangements and advocates of a full primary contest.
