Presidential aspirant of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Mohammed Hayatu-Deen, has firmly stated that he will not step down from the party's 2027 presidential race for any contender, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi, or other aspirants. He emphasized that his decision is driven by the urgent need for capable and reform-minded leadership to address Nigeria's deepening economic and security challenges.
Constitutional Right to Contest
Hayatu-Deen argued that every eligible Nigerian has the constitutional right to seek elective office, stressing that political participation must remain open and democratic. He said his ambition is anchored in legality and principle rather than personal interest. “First and foremost, every citizen who is of voting age and constitutionally qualified has the right to contest for any office of his choice. That is guaranteed under our Constitution and laws,” he stated.
Economic Challenges Shaped His Decision
The ADC aspirant noted that his entry into the race was influenced by Nigeria's prolonged socio-economic decline. He lamented rising inflation, unemployment, insecurity, and weakening public services over the past two decades. He added that Nigeria requires leadership with technical competence and historical understanding of the country's economic challenges, emphasizing that many issues facing citizens are fundamentally “bread-and-butter” problems.
Refusal to Step Down
Addressing speculation about possible negotiations or withdrawals, Hayatu-Deen ruled out stepping down for any aspirant. He stressed his commitment to the party's internal democratic process. “Have other aspirants approached you to step down? No, they have not. And if anyone does, I will not step down for anybody. However, once the party makes its final decision through a credible process, I will fully support whoever emerges as the candidate,” he said.
Fair Primaries and Party Unity
Hayatu-Deen expressed confidence in the ADC's internal structures, saying the party must prioritize unity after its primaries. According to him, once a candidate emerges, all members should rally behind that person to strengthen the party's electoral chances. He also argued that opposition parties must cooperate strategically to challenge the ruling party and provide Nigerians with credible alternatives.
Zoning Not a Solution
The aspirant dismissed zoning debates as secondary to governance outcomes, insisting that competence and capacity should guide leadership selection. He said Nigerians are more concerned about jobs, healthcare, education, and security than regional considerations. He added that leadership must focus on delivering tangible improvements in citizens' welfare rather than political balancing.
Focus on Economy and Security
Hayatu-Deen outlined his priorities if elected president, pledging to tackle inflation, unemployment, and insecurity as urgent national concerns. His approach would include job creation through public works and reforms in key sectors. He also emphasized long-term planning, including investment in agriculture, infrastructure, education, and healthcare, stressing that Nigeria must adopt a clear national development vision similar to other successful emerging economies.
Atiku Enters 2027 Race
Previously, reports indicated that former Vice President Atiku Abubakar is entering the 2027 presidential race with strong momentum following the submission of his nomination form under the African Democratic Congress. The announcement came with pictures and a bold assessment of the political landscape ahead of the election.
