The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has refrained from verifying recent media reports alleging that its presidential flagbearer, Atiku Abubakar, has selected former Transportation Minister Rotimi Amaechi as his running mate for the 2027 general election.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Party Official Responds

In a conversation with Premium Times on Saturday, ADC National Publicity Secretary Bolaji Abdullahi maintained a neutral stance when asked about the potential pairing. “I don’t have that confirmation. I cannot confirm for you at this time,” Abdullahi stated. While he declined to offer details on the ongoing selection process, he assured the public that the party will officially announce a vice-presidential candidate in due course.

Background to the Speculation

The rumors of a North-East/South-South alliance—pairing Atiku (Adamawa) with Amaechi (Rivers)—have gained traction since the conclusion of the ADC presidential primary, where Amaechi finished as the runner-up to Atiku.

Chieftain Urges Caution

The discourse intensified following claims by party stalwart Dele Momodu that Amaechi was uninterested in the deputy role. ADC chieftain Chukwuemeka Eze has since pushed back against these assertions, clarifying that Amaechi’s previous comments only indicated that he had not been formally approached. Eze further warned party members to avoid spreading unsubstantiated claims that could foster unnecessary friction within the ADC.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed deep shock and sorrow regarding the death of retired Major-General Rabe Abubakar, who passed away while in the custody of terrorists in Katsina State. The Katsina State Government confirmed that the retired senior officer died from complications related to hypertension and diabetes while still being held by his abductors. The government characterized this incident as a tragic loss for the General’s family, the state, and the entire nation.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Hajiya Amina Abubakar, the widow of the late Major General Abubakar Rabe (retd.), remains in the custody of bandits. The couple was abducted on May 30, 2026, after their vehicle was ambushed on the Marabar Musawa–Kafinsoli road in the Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State. The Katsina State Government confirmed that Major General Rabe, a retired senior officer, passed away while in captivity due to complications from hypertension and diabetes.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Prior to his death, a social media video surfaced in which the couple detailed the demands of their captors, which included the release of three detained individuals—Sani, Aminu, and Nasiru—as well as the return of seized livestock. Amina had pleaded with the Katsina State Government and local leaders to meet these conditions to secure their release.

Although the Katsina State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Nasiru Mu’azu, announced the retired general’s passing, he provided no update regarding the widow’s status, fueling ongoing concerns for her safety. While security sources indicate that rescue efforts are continuing, they have not provided a specific timeline.

A bandit kingpin, Kachalla Muhammad, stated in an audio message that he had previously intended to release the widow but reversed his decision due to the heavy deployment of security personnel in the area. Furthermore, the bandit leader expressed frustration over the arrest of individuals linked to his group, warning that these actions have hindered potential dialogue and reiterated his demands for the release of the three detainees and the return of seized cattle.