Alhaji Mohammed Hayatudeen, the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), said the ongoing debate over zoning is diverting attention from Nigeria’s most pressing problems. Speaking on Channels Television’s Political Paradigm programme, Hayatudeen urged a shift in national discourse toward insecurity, economic decline and unemployment.
He cited recent incidents to illustrate his point, noting that “last week 416 people were abducted and threatened with execution” and questioning the relevance of zoning to such crises. He added that thousands have been killed over the past three years, and that families are struggling to afford basic necessities and education, none of which he linked to regional allocation of political offices.
Hayatudeen argued that leadership should be judged by character, competence and empathy rather than geographic origin. “It does not matter where you come from. What matters is capacity, skill, vision and deep empathy to deliver for every Nigerian,” he said.
The candidate connected Nigeria’s security challenges to long‑standing economic mismanagement. He claimed the economy has been under‑performing for at least two decades, resulting in poverty rates rising five‑ to six‑fold and leaving roughly 110 million Nigerians below the poverty line. Hayatudeen dismissed claims that the current wave of insecurity is election‑driven, stating that comparative data from local and international think tanks do not support that narrative.
Hayatudeen, who previously contested the presidential election under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), said he chose the ADC because its constitution, manifesto and leadership align with his vision. He described ADC leaders as “forthright, tenacious and experienced,” and said the party’s focus on the cost‑of‑living crisis, security, job creation and poverty eradication mirrors the priorities of ordinary Nigerians.
He also warned that the government is restricting political space. “Through surrogates and state instruments the government is muzzling the political arena, making it impossible for Nigerians to exercise genuine freedom of choice,” Hayatudeen claimed.
By emphasizing security, economic revival and employment, Hayatudeen seeks to reposition the ADC’s agenda ahead of the upcoming elections, urging voters to prioritize competence over regional considerations.
