Stakeholders of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) across the South West have endorsed Mohammed Hayatu-Deen (OON) ahead of the party's presidential primaries scheduled for Monday.
They said he is prepared to reposition Nigeria and address the country's current economic and governance challenges.
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.
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According to Dosunmu, the decision to support Hayatu-Deen was based on 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, and economic transformation. After extensive engagement and consultations, we believe Mohammed Hayatu-Deen represents the kind of leadership Nigeria requires at this moment," he said.
Dosunmu stated that Hayatu-Deen's background in banking, economic management, public policy, and institutional leadership positions him to address the country's economic hardship, unemployment, insecurity, and declining investor confidence.
"At a time when millions of Nigerians are struggling to survive, when businesses are collapsing, and when insecurity continues to threaten national stability, Nigeria needs leadership with an understanding of how economies function. Mohammed Hayatu-Deen possesses that experience," the statement added.
The ADC Young Professionals Forum leader also referenced Hayatu-Deen's 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 focused on issue-based engagement and a commitment to values-driven leadership," Dosunmu stated.
The group called on delegates participating in Monday's presidential primaries to support Hayatu-Deen's candidacy, arguing that the ADC has an opportunity to present Nigerians with an 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 an opportunity to present a national alternative capable of governing effectively," the statement added.
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