Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has sent a birthday message to former Rivers State governor Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi despite the lingering political tension within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) following the party’s controversial presidential primaries.
Amaechi, who lost the ADC presidential ticket to Atiku, had reportedly rejected the outcome of the exercise, raising concerns about possible cracks within the opposition coalition ahead of the 2027 general elections. His supporters have also questioned the transparency of the primary process, deepening uncertainty within the party.
However, in what many political observers see as a conciliatory move, Atiku publicly celebrated Amaechi on his birthday, describing him as a patriot whose service to Nigeria remains inspiring.
“Happy Birthday to my brother and fellow patriot, H.E. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi. Your courage, conviction, and years of service to Rivers State and Nigeria continue to inspire many across the nation. I wish you good health, strength, and many more years of impactful service to our dear country,” Atiku wrote in the goodwill message signed “AA.”
The message comes at a politically sensitive time for the ADC, as efforts continue behind the scenes to prevent internal divisions from weakening the party’s chances against the ruling All Progressives Congress in 2027.
Amaechi, a former Minister of Transportation and influential figure in Nigerian politics, has yet to publicly respond to Atiku’s birthday wishes. Nonetheless, analysts believe the gesture may be part of broader reconciliation moves aimed at calming tensions within the opposition camp.
The ADC primaries had generated intense debate after Atiku emerged victorious over two aspirants, including Amaechi, amid allegations of irregularities and claims of political manipulation by some party stakeholders. The disagreement has fueled speculation over whether aggrieved members may defect or challenge the process legally.
Despite the tensions, party loyalists insist that unity talks are ongoing and that both Atiku and Amaechi remain important figures in the opposition movement seeking to unseat President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the APC in the next presidential election.
