Former presidential candidate, Hayatu-Deen joins ADC presidential race

A former presidential aspirant, Mohammed Hayatu-Deen, has formally joined the African Democratic Congress presidential race for the 2027 general elections, pledging to unite the country, tackle insecurity, and implement sweeping economic reforms aimed at resetting Nigeria’s struggling economy.

During an appearance on Arise Television with Charles Aniagolu on Tuesday night, Hayatu-Deen stated that the current situation demands leadership that not only recognises the daily hardships faced by Nigerians but also possesses the capacity and experience to address them.

Hayatu-Deen highlighted the escalating cost of living, stressing that “food prices keep going up, petrol prices keep rising, and for many Nigerians, just getting through the day has become a struggle.”

He further expressed worries over the deteriorating security situation, noting that the nation now spends more on ransom payments than on adequately funding its security agencies, even as the Naira continues to depreciate against other African currencies.

“This is not the Nigeria we deserve. It is time to change course, and that is why I am stepping forward to seek the ADC presidential ticket,” he declared.

Hayatu-Deen faulted what he sees as a gap between the government and everyday Nigerians, arguing that despite the strain on households and businesses, those in authority have not acted with the needed urgency.

“For too long, this government has looked away while Nigerians bear the burden of bad policies and rising insecurity. We cannot continue like this,” he said.

He promised to offer a realistic and reliable alternative, centred on economic stability, improved security, and renewed confidence in public institutions.

“Nigeria needs a calm and steady leader, someone who understands how to fix systems, create jobs, and secure lives and livelihoods. That is the leadership I offer,” he said.

Leveraging more than four decades of experience, Hayatu-Deen emphasised his record of reviving distressed organisations, spearheading job-creating economic reforms, attracting investments, and advancing educational programmes, especially for children impacted by insecurity.

He also sent a clear message to ADC members, underscoring that party unity would be essential for victory in 2027.

Hayatu-Deen continued, “Our strength lies in our unity. Nigerians are looking for a credible alternative, and the ADC must rise to that moment.

“Together, we can offer a real path forward, one that secures our country, grows our economy, and restores hope to our people. Join me. Let us build a Nigeria that works again, for everyone.”

On April 12, Hayatu-Deen formally exited the Peoples Democratic Party and aligned with the African Democratic Congress, pointing to escalating insecurity, the rising cost of living, and what he described as a narrowing democratic space in Nigeria.

Prior to his arrival in the coalition party, the ADC already had former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi, and former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi, all of whom had declared their intentions to contest the presidency on the party’s platform.