The African Democratic Congress in Rivers State says no fewer than eight individuals have expressed interest in contesting the governorship election on the party’s platform ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The development comes as the party also commended former Rivers State governor Rotimi Amaechi for formally joining the presidential race under the ADC platform.

Amaechi, who previously served as Minister of Transportation under former President Muhammadu Buhari, recently picked the party’s presidential nomination form.

In a statement issued in Port Harcourt on Sunday, the ADC State Chairman-elect, Chukwudi Dimkpa, said the party had witnessed growing political interest and participation as preparations intensify for the next general election.

Dimkpa described the increasing attention toward the party as evidence that ADC was gradually becoming a major platform for what he called credible leadership and people-focused governance.

According to him, Amaechi’s decision to contest the presidency on the ADC platform represents a significant boost to the party’s national profile and political momentum.

He disclosed that the governorship hopefuls in Rivers State include former political office holders, technocrats, professionals and private sector operators.

Among those said to have shown interest are a former Secretary to the Rivers State Government, former members of the House of Representatives, a former Executive Director of Marine and Operations at the Nigerian Ports Authority, a former chairman of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, a former commissioner, a former Chief Medical Director of the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital, as well as architects and business figures.

Dimkpa added that several individuals had also indicated interest in contesting for seats in the Senate, House of Representatives and Rivers State House of Assembly under the ADC banner.

He said the increasing influx of politicians and professionals into the party suggested that many Nigerians now viewed the ADC as a strong political force rather than merely an alternative platform.

According to him, the party represents a convergence of experience, competence, grassroots support and youthful participation aimed at providing a new political direction for Rivers State and the country.

Dimkpa stated that for years Nigerians had criticised credible individuals for staying away from politics, but noted that many respected figures were now actively embracing political participation through the ADC.

He further assured that the party in Rivers State remained committed to internal democracy, transparent processes, peaceful engagement and issue-based politics as the 2027 elections approach.