Presidential aspirant on the African Democratic Congress (ADC) platform, Mohammed Hayatu-Deen, has declared he will not step down for any contender ahead of the party’s 2027 presidential primaries.
He said Nigeria urgently needs “competent and visionary leadership” to reverse nearly two decades of economic decline, insecurity, and worsening hardship.
Addressing questions about his chances against established figures like Alhaji Atiku Abubakar and Rotimi Amaechi, Hayatu-Deen said every qualified citizen has the constitutional right to contest any office. “This is a very serious undertaking, and we are at a defining moment in our country’s history,” he added.
He attributed Nigeria’s prolonged challenges—rising inflation, mass unemployment, insecurity, and deteriorating education and healthcare systems—to weak leadership since 2007, contrasting the situation with countries like Rwanda and Ghana, which recovered from crises through disciplined governance.
“I believe I have the experience, ideas, and practical capacity to help turn this country around,” he said, stressing his commitment to delivering prosperity and welfare for all Nigerians, regardless of region, ethnicity, or religion.
On whether he would stay in the party if he did not secure the ADC ticket, Hayatu-Deen emphasized loyalty and principle. “I have built a reputation and credibility over many years. Whoever emerges as the candidate will have my full support. I will stand behind that person and work with the party to ensure victory at the polls,” he said.
He also addressed the party’s prospects in 2027, noting that ADC prioritizes party supremacy over individual ambition and encouraged opposition parties to collaborate where necessary to provide credible alternatives while maintaining accountability to the people.
“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 concluded.
