By Myke Uzendu, Abuja
Stakeholders of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Nigeria’s South-West region have endorsed the presidential ambition of Mohammed Hayatu-Deen ahead of the party’s presidential primaries scheduled for Monday, describing him as the candidate best positioned to address Nigeria’s economic and governance challenges.
The endorsement was announced in a statement issued on Sunday by Babajide Dosunmu following consultations involving party stakeholders, youth leaders, professionals, and mobilisers across the zone.
Dosunmu said the decision to back Hayatu-Deen stemmed from concerns over Nigeria’s worsening economic conditions and the need for what he termed competent and purposeful leadership.
“The South West has always stood for progressive politics, competence in governance, intellectual depth, and economic transformation. After extensive engagement and consultations, we are convinced that Mohammed Hayatu-Deen represents the kind of leadership Nigeria urgently requires at this critical moment,” he stated.
According to him, Hayatu-Deen’s experience in banking, economic management, public policy, and institutional leadership places him in a strong position to tackle economic hardship, unemployment, insecurity, and declining investor confidence.
The group argued that Nigeria requires leadership with an understanding of economic management amid rising living costs and growing social challenges.
“At a time when millions of Nigerians are struggling to survive, when businesses are collapsing, when young people are losing hope, and when insecurity continues to threaten national stability, Nigeria needs a leader with proven competence, discipline, and a serious understanding of how economies function,” the statement added.
The stakeholders also commended Hayatu-Deen’s conduct during the primary process, particularly his call for aspirants to publicly commit to the ADC’s Governance Principles and Code of Ethics, known as The Orange Book.
The forum said his emphasis on accountability and issue-based politics distinguished him from traditional political approaches.
“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,” Dosunmu said.
The group urged delegates participating in the party’s presidential primary to support Hayatu-Deen, arguing that the ADC has an opportunity to present a credible alternative ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“The decision before delegates is bigger than personalities. It is about the future of our party and the future of Nigeria,” the statement concluded.
