‘Trusted Big Names Matter’ — Nwajiuba Explains Why Obi, Atiku, Amaechi Are Key to ADC’s Future

Former Minister of State for Education, Chukwuemeka Nwajiuba, says Nigeria’s political landscape is undergoing a major reset, arguing that no individual currently fits the description of a political heavyweight.

Speaking during an interview on ARISE News, Nwajiuba said many political actors are still adjusting to what he described as a new political order, shaped by shifting alliances and emerging coalitions.

“To be honest with you, I don’t consider anybody a political heavyweight right now,” he said, noting that politicians across party lines are redefining their roles in unfamiliar political terrain.

Despite this, Nwajiuba stressed that the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has attracted figures with strong public credibility, integrity, and a track record of leadership — qualities he said matter more than political labels.

According to him, the party is home to men and women who enjoy public trust and have earned national recognition through service.

He cited former Vice President Atiku Abubakar as a standout example, pointing to his role in overseeing Nigeria’s privatisation programme, which he described as transparent and effective compared to what followed later.

“When he ran the privatisation scheme, it was decent. When others took over, it wasn’t. The difference is clear,” Nwajiuba said, describing Atiku as someone Nigerians can trust.

He also referenced former Rivers State governor and ex-Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, whom he described as a trusted colleague from his time in the Federal Executive Council.

Nwajiuba further spoke warmly about former Anambra State governor and Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, revealing that Obi formally joined the ADC coalition in December after months of behind-the-scenes involvement.

He recalled the strong youth-driven support behind Obi during the 2023 general elections, saying many young Nigerians saw him as a credible alternative at the time.

However, Nwajiuba argued that Nigeria’s challenges require a broad coalition that cuts across political backgrounds and ideologies, rather than loyalty to a single party or figure.

“The country needs all shades of ideals, all shades of people,” he said, calling for inclusive participation as Nigeria seeks a path forward.