Former Nigerian presidential aspirant Mohammed Hayatu-Deen has officially joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC), citing deepening economic hardship and a shrinking democratic space as key factors behind his decision.
In a statement released Sunday through his media office, Hayatu-Deen said his move was driven by growing public frustration over rising living costs and what he described as a decline in Nigeria’s democratic institutions. “Like many Nigerians, I want a safer and more prosperous future, but the nation faces fundamental problems that are being ignored,” he said.
He noted that widespread public sentiment reflects unmet expectations in recent years. “Every day I hear from people across the country that they want a government focused on fixing problems, reducing the cost of living, and creating jobs,” he added.
Hayatu-Deen also voiced concern over the state of Nigeria’s democracy, warning that civic voices are being stifled, institutions are under strain, and the space for credible opposition is narrowing. “Democracy must offer Nigerians genuine options. This gives me an even greater impetus to be involved in the political process,” he said.
The former presidential candidate described his decision to join the ADC not merely as a change of party, but as a commitment to building a better future for Nigerians. He pledged to campaign actively with the ADC ahead of the 2027 elections, stating, “From this day onwards until the 2027 elections, I will campaign relentlessly as a party member, to help the ADC win the elections and deliver the better future Nigeria desperately deserves.”
Hayatu-Deen, a businessman and former investment banker, ran as an independent candidate in Nigeria’s 2023 presidential election, campaigning on a platform of economic reform and good governance. His defection to the ADC is seen as a significant boost to the party’s profile ahead of the next electoral cycle, as it seeks to position itself as a credible alternative to Nigeria’s two dominant parties.
