Renowned economist and banker Mohammed Hayatu Deen has entered the race for the African Democratic Congress presidential ticket ahead of the 2027 general election.
His entry brings the number of aspirants seeking to fly the party’s flag to five, widening the contest within the opposition.
He joins a lineup that already includes former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi, former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi, and former Kano State governor Rabiu Kwankwaso.
Speaking in a television interview, Hayatu Deen said the country needs leadership that understands the daily struggles of citizens and has the experience to fix deep rooted problems. He pointed to the rising cost of living and worsening insecurity as urgent issues, warning that Nigeria is now spending more on ransom payments than on properly equipping its security forces. He also raised concern about the continued weakening of the naira against other African currencies.
He said food and fuel prices keep rising, making everyday life difficult for many Nigerians, while poor policies and insecurity continue to weigh heavily on the population. According to him, the current situation does not reflect the kind of country Nigerians deserve.
Hayatu Deen said he is stepping forward to offer steady and practical leadership focused on fixing systems, creating jobs, and protecting lives and livelihoods. He urged members of the ADC to stay united as the election approaches, stressing that party unity will be key to winning in 2027.
He added that Nigerians are searching for a credible alternative and said the ADC must rise to the challenge by offering a clear path that improves security, strengthens the economy, and restores hope.
