The Southern Political Progressives Amalgamation Forum (SPPAF) has cautioned the African Democratic Congress (ADC) against an Atiku Abubakar–Rotimi Amaechi ticket, warning of possible legal hurdles.
This is contained in a statement jointly signed by its Convener, Fidel Anga, Co-Convener, Bright Menget, and Strategic Director, Abasi Jonathan, in Abuja.
The statement specifically cautions against reports suggesting a possible presidential ticket involving former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Rivers State Governor Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi.
According to statement, such a ticket could expose the opposition to prolonged legal battles capable of undermining its electoral chances.
It cites the 2020 Bayelsa governorship case involving David Lyon, whose election was nullified by the Supreme Court over issues relating to his deputy governorship running mate’s qualifications.
The statement argues that the case demonstrates the importance of ensuring that every member of a joint ticket is free from legal encumbrances.
It also refers to a Rivers State government white paper on the administration of former Governor Amaechi, noting that political opponents could rely on issues raised in the document to institute legal challenges if he emerges as part of a presidential ticket.
The statement stresses that it was not making a legal determination on the allegations contained in the white paper but advised the ADC to carefully assess any potential legal and political implications before making decisions on its candidates.
It calls on the party’s National Executive Committee and National Working Committee to prioritise candidates with what it described as “clear legal standing” in order to avoid distractions that could affect the opposition’s chances in future elections.
The statement adds that the opposition should focus on presenting candidates capable of competing at the polls without the burden of avoidable legal disputes, saying this would strengthen public confidence and protect the party’s electoral prospects.
