The African Democratic Congress is scheduled to begin the selection of its presidential candidate for the 2027 general elections today. Party members across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory are expected to take part in the exercise. The political platform chose the direct primary method after former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi, and former bank executive Mohammed Hayatu-Deen reportedly rejected appeals to agree on a consensus candidate. Party leadership insisted that the direct primary approach perfectly aligns with the stipulations of the Electoral Act 2026.
Atiku enters the race with significant political experience and a vast national network. Since leaving the Peoples Democratic Party in late 2025, he has collaborated with leaders like David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola to unite opposition forces. A former PDP member who defected to the ADC noted his advantage, stating, "I believe the party will ultimately settle for a candidate capable of attracting votes across the country. Atiku may have lost several presidential contests in the past, but when you compare his political profile with those of the other aspirants, it is clear he holds a significant advantage. Amaechi and Hayatu-Deen are both familiar faces in national politics, but Atiku remains a formidable force that will be difficult for either of them to overcome." An ADC chieftain and House of Representatives member echoed this sentiment, saying, "All three aspirants have paid their dues in Nigerian politics, whether we acknowledge it or not. But I do not see Atiku losing to either of them. Recall that during the PDP presidential primaries in Port Harcourt, Atiku faced a major challenge yet still emerged victorious, despite then-Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike backing Aminu Tambuwal. In my view, Atiku stands a better chance than the other two contenders."
Amaechi is also considered a major force in the contest. A close associate expressed confidence in his capacity, saying, "I do not have his permission to speak on his behalf, but Amaechi represents the kind of leadership Nigerians need for a fresh start." The associate highlighted his past achievements, adding, "The schools Amaechi built as governor of Rivers State remain among the best examples of public infrastructure development in the country. Whatever critics may say, he was one of the key reasons the Buhari administration recorded notable achievements. The railway corridors operational in parts of the country today are part of his enduring legacy." Emphasising zoning, the associate stated, "Why are we here? The past three years have left many Nigerians questioning whether the right choices were made. If the presidency has remained in the South for four years and we agree that each region should complete eight years, then the party must put forward its strongest candidate. The South should retain the presidency, and Amaechi represents that option."
Hayatu-Deen has focused his campaign on economic reforms and youth employment, warning against what he called "recycled politics." The South West professionals of the party recently endorsed him. The group leader, Babajide Dosunmu, declared, "The South-West has always stood for progressive politics, competent governance, intellectual depth, and economic transformation. After extensive consultations and engagements, we are convinced that Mohammed Hayatu-Deen embodies the kind of leadership Nigeria urgently requires at this critical moment." Dosunmu further stressed, "At a time when millions of Nigerians are struggling to survive, businesses are collapsing, young people are losing hope, and insecurity continues to threaten national stability, Nigeria needs a leader with proven competence, discipline, and a deep understanding of how economies function. Mohammed Hayatu-Deen possesses those qualities." Praising his conduct, Dosunmu noted, "In a political culture where many seek power without accountability, Mohammed Hayatu-Deen has distinguished himself through integrity, issue-based engagement, and a clear commitment to values-driven leadership. Character matters. Integrity matters. Leadership matters." He concluded, "The decision before delegates today goes beyond personalities. It concerns the future of our party and the future of Nigeria. We believe Mohammed Hayatu-Deen gives the ADC its strongest chance to inspire confidence among Nigerians and present a credible national alternative capable of winning and governing effectively."
In a separate development, the internal crisis of the party escalated as a faction loyal to Dumebi Kachikwu dissolved the National Working Committee and declared him their presidential candidate. Following a voice vote at a parallel convention in Abuja, the faction announced a new set of executives. After receiving the flag of the party, Kachikwu bemoaned the state of the nation, stating, "The mass exodus of our middle class is indicative of those who have chosen not to be part of this hardship anymore." The newly appointed factional National Chairman, Abdulkadir Bashir, appealed to aggrieved members to return and work towards strengthening the political structure of the party.
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