Hayatu‑Deen Declines to Step Down in the 2027 ADC Presidential Race

Mohammed Hayatu‑Deen, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, has declared that he will not step aside for any other contender before the party’s 2027 primaries.

He emphasized that Nigeria urgently requires competent and visionary leadership to reverse nearly twenty years of economic decline, rising insecurity, and worsening hardship.

When asked about his prospects against prominent rivals such as former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Minister Rotimi Amaechi, Hayatu‑Deen said that every eligible Nigerian has a constitutional right to run for office.

"This is a very serious undertaking, and we are at a defining moment in our country’s history," he said.

He attributed Nigeria’s ongoing problems—inflation, high unemployment, insecurity, and the decline of education and healthcare—to weak leadership since 2007.

He compared Nigeria to countries like Rwanda and Ghana, which he said have recovered from crises through disciplined governance.

"I believe I have the experience, ideas, and practical capacity to help turn this country around," he added, "and my priority is to promote prosperity and improve welfare for all Nigerians, irrespective of region, ethnicity, or religion."

Regarding staying in the party if he does not win the ADC ticket, Hayatu‑Deen stressed loyalty and political principle.

"I have built a reputation and credibility over many years. Whoever becomes the candidate will have my full support. I will stand behind that person and work with the party to secure victory at the polls," he said.

He also discussed the ADC’s prospects for 2027, noting that the party prioritises collective goals over individual ambition. He urged opposition parties to cooperate where needed to offer credible alternatives, while keeping leaders accountable to voters.

"Democracy is about offering people choices. Politicians are elected to serve citizens, not themselves. Widespread poverty and low political awareness have weakened citizens’ ability to hold leaders accountable. That must change," he added.