Nigerian presidential aspirant Mohammed Hayatu‑Deen, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate, told reporters he will remain in the race regardless of who else contests the party’s primary. The former minister, who has positioned himself as a challenger to veteran politicians such as former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and ex‑Minister Rotimi Amaechi, said he will not withdraw for any rival.
Hayatu‑Deen described the country’s current trajectory as a “decade‑long decline” marked by soaring inflation, chronic unemployment, deteriorating security, and crumbling health and education systems. He argued that weak leadership since 2007 has left Nigeria “without competent and visionary governance” needed to reverse these trends.
Citing Rwanda and Ghana as examples of nations that have recovered through disciplined administration, the aspirant said his experience and policy ideas equip him to restore prosperity. “My focus is to promote welfare for all Nigerians, irrespective of region, ethnicity or religion,” he said.
When asked about the possibility of losing the ADC ticket, Hayatu‑Deen emphasized party loyalty. “I have built a reputation over many years. Whoever emerges as the candidate will have my full support, and I will work with the party to secure victory at the polls,” he affirmed.
The candidate also reiterated the ADC’s commitment to collective success over individual ambition. He urged opposition parties to consider strategic cooperation when it serves the electorate, while reminding them that “democracy is about offering people choices. Politicians are elected to serve citizens, not themselves.” He warned that pervasive poverty and low political awareness have eroded citizens’ ability to hold leaders accountable, a situation he says must change.
Hayatu‑Deen’s statements come as the ADC prepares for its upcoming presidential primary, a contest that will determine its ticket for the next national election. The party’s emphasis on internal cohesion and broader coalition‑building suggests it aims to present a credible alternative to the ruling coalition and other major parties.
The next steps include the ADC’s primary election, after which the party will formalise its presidential nominee and outline its policy platform. Observers will be watching whether Hayatu‑Deen’s message of disciplined governance and inclusive development resonates with voters across Nigeria’s diverse electorate.
