South-West ADC Leaders Endorse Mohammed Hayatu-Deen
Stakeholders of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) from the South-West have thrown their weight behind presidential aspirant Mohammed Hayatu-Deen, declaring him the most capable candidate to steer Nigeria out of its current economic and governance crises.
The endorsement was made public on Sunday in a statement issued by Babajide Dosunmu, Leader of the ADC South-West Professionals Forum, following extensive consultations with party members, youth groups, professionals, and mobilisers across the region.
Why Hayatu-Deen?
According to the forum, the decision rests on the urgent need for credible and competent leadership as Nigeria battles hardship, rising unemployment, insecurity, and dwindling investor confidence. Dosunmu noted that the South-West has a tradition of progressive politics, economic reform, and accountable governance.
He emphasized that Hayatu-Deen’s background in banking, economic management, and public policy gives him an edge over other aspirants vying for the party’s presidential ticket.
“After extensive engagement and consultations, we are convinced that Mohammed Hayatu-Deen represents the kind of leadership Nigeria urgently requires at this critical moment,” Dosunmu said.
Contrast with Atiku Abubakar’s Appeal
Earlier, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar had urged ADC delegates to choose a competent and experienced candidate capable of addressing Nigeria’s economic challenges and institutional decline. He warned against political experimentation, stating that the country cannot afford a “learning‑on‑the‑job” presidency.
However, the South-West stakeholders argued that Hayatu-Deen possesses the experience and temperament needed to give the ADC a strong platform for the 2027 general election. They praised his conduct during the primary process, particularly his call for all aspirants to publicly commit to the party’s Governance Principles and Code of Ethics, known as The Orange Book.
Dosunmu added, “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.”
A Call to Delegates
The forum urged delegates participating in Monday’s presidential primary to support Hayatu-Deen, describing the vote as more than a contest among personalities — it is a decision that could shape the future of the ADC and Nigeria.
“We believe Mohammed Hayatu-Deen gives the ADC its strongest opportunity to inspire confidence among Nigerians and present a serious national alternative capable of winning and governing effectively,” the statement concluded.