ADC South-West stakeholders endorse Hayatu-Deen ahead of presidential primaries, say Nigeria needs competent leadership 

Stakeholders of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) across the South West have formally endorsed the presidential aspiration of Mohammed Hayatu-Deen (OON) ahead of the party’s presidential primaries scheduled for Monday, describing him as the candidate best prepared to reposition Nigeria and lead the country out of its current economic and governance crisis.

The endorsement was conveyed in a statement issued on Sunday by Babajide Dosunmu, Leader of the ADC South-West Professionals Forum, following consultations with party stakeholders, youth leaders, professionals, and mobilisers across the South West zone.

According to Dosunmu, the decision to support Hayatu-Deen was driven by what he described as “a clear understanding that Nigeria can no longer afford experimental leadership, political theatrics, or recycled governance failures.”

“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 said.

Dosunmu stated that Hayatu-Deen’s background in banking, economic management, public policy, and institutional leadership gives him a unique advantage in addressing the country’s worsening economic hardship, unemployment crisis, insecurity, and declining investor confidence.

“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. Mohammed Hayatu-Deen possesses those qualities,” the statement added.

The ADC Young Professionals Forum leader also praised Hayatu-Deen’s conduct throughout the primary process, particularly his public call for aspirants to commit themselves to the ADC’s Governance Principles and Code of Ethics, popularly known as The Orange Book.

“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. That matters. Character matters. Integrity matters. Leadership matters,” Dosunmu stated.

The group called on delegates participating in Monday’s presidential primaries to support Hayatu-Deen’s candidacy, arguing that the ADC has a historic opportunity to present Nigerians with a credible and competent alternative ahead of the 2027 general elections.

“The decision before delegates on Monday is bigger than personalities. It is about the future of our party and the future of 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.