The African Democratic Congress (ADC) today begins the process of selecting its presidential candidate for the 2027 general election, with party members across Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory expected to participate in the decisive exercise.
Barring any last-minute changes, the party has opted for the direct primary method after all three major aspirants, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, ex-Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi, and former banker Mohammed Hayatu-Deen, reportedly refused calls to step down for a consensus candidate.
While the ADC had initially considered an affirmation process similar to that used by other parties, leaders insisted the direct primary aligns fully with the Electoral Act 2026.
As voting begins, focus has shifted to the political weight, nationwide reach, and weaknesses of the three contenders fighting for the party’s sole presidential ticket ahead of a major showdown against President Bola Tinubu in 2027.
Atiku seen as frontrunner
Atiku Abubakar enters the race with deep political experience, strong national visibility, and an expansive network built over decades in public service.
Since leaving the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in November 2025, Mr Atiku has played a central role in uniting opposition forces under the ADC ahead of the 2027 election.
Working alongside former Senate President David Mark and ex-Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola, now ADC National Chairman and National Secretary respectively, Mr Atiku has pushed for a coalition aimed at challenging President Tinubu.
Political observers believe his financial strength, name recognition, and nationwide structure place him ahead of rivals.
A party insider said:
“Atiku remains a formidable force. When you compare his political profile with the other aspirants, it is clear he holds a major advantage.”
However, critics argue his decades-long presence in Nigerian politics could trigger resistance from younger party members pushing for generational change.
Amaechi pushes southern power argument
Former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi is also considered a major contender.
The former Minister of Transportation is banking on his governance experience and infrastructure record, particularly railway projects executed during the Buhari administration.
A close ally said:
“Amaechi represents the kind of leadership Nigerians need for a fresh start.”
Supporters are also pushing a zoning argument, insisting the presidency should remain in the South.
“The South should retain the presidency, and Amaechi represents that option,” the associate said.
Despite support in key regions, analysts say it remains uncertain whether Amaechi can build enough nationwide momentum to overcome Atiku’s established political structure.
Hayatu-Deen sells reform agenda
Former banker Mohammed Hayatu-Deen is presenting himself as a technocrat focused on economic revival, youth employment, and institutional reform.
He has repeatedly urged party members to reject what he described as “recycled politics.”
Backed by ADC stakeholders in the South-West, Hayatu-Deen’s supporters argue his banking, policy, and economic experience make him the most competent option.
In a statement endorsing him, ADC South-West stakeholders said:
“Nigeria needs a leader with proven competence, discipline, and a deep understanding of how economies function. Mohammed Hayatu-Deen possesses those qualities.”
Still, political analysts say he faces a major challenge in national visibility compared with Atiku and Amaechi.
ADC crisis deepens over Kachikwu faction
Meanwhile, internal tensions deepened after the faction loyal to Dumebi Kachikwu dissolved the party’s National Working Committee and declared him its sole presidential candidate during a parallel convention in Abuja.
Mr Kachikwu warned Nigeria was at a critical point and said the ADC must become a credible alternative.
“The mass exodus of our middle class is indicative of those who have chosen not to be part of this hardship anymore,” he said.
With voting underway, today’s primary is expected to shape the ADC’s direction and determine who emerges as the party’s strongest challenger to President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 presidential race.
Discover more from VOICE OF THE PEOPLE
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
