BREAKING: Hayatu-Deen Concedes ADC Presidential Primary, Urges Unity for Nigeria’s Democratic Renewal

By Emmanuel Kwada

In a statesmanlike reflection on his presidential bid, prominent Nigerian politician and former aspirant Mohammed Hayatu-Deen (OON) has formally accepted the outcome of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential primary held on May 25, while raising serious concerns about electoral irregularities within the party.

In a detailed statement released on Monday, Hayatu-Deen disclosed that he had chosen not to attend the official announcement of the primary results due to reports of widespread vote rigging and procedural lapses, some of which he personally observed.

“How can the ADC criticise INEC for election interference and the falsification of results, and yet tolerate the same within its own house?” he had stated prior to the announcement.

Despite his misgivings, the one-time Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential aspirant announced that he would not challenge the results in court, prioritising national interest over personal ambition.

“I have decided, after careful reflection and wide consultation, that I will not challenge the outcome in court,” Hayatu-Deen wrote. “Nigeria urgently requires a strong, credible and united opposition. That objective must always remain larger than individual ambition or temporary political disappointment.”

Hayatu-Deen, who entered partisan politics in 2022, described his brief but impactful journey with the ADC as one driven by the desire to build a credible opposition anchored on integrity, internal democracy, and national renewal.

He highlighted the enthusiasm of the “silent majority” — ordinary Nigerians, particularly the youth, women, and professionals — who yearn for principled leadership, competence, and good governance.

The aspirant expressed profound gratitude to his supporters, campaign team, volunteers, and donors across the federation for their commitment. He praised their belief in a politics defined by high purpose rather than bitterness or entitlement.

“What I will carry forward from this campaign is not bitterness, but gratitude,” he emphasised. “Many of you were not simply supporting Mohammed Hayatu-Deen. You were expressing your belief that Nigeria can still become the country we all know it can be.”

Hayatu-Deen concluded on a hopeful note, urging Nigerians not to succumb to cynicism.

“Please do not stop believing. Do not surrender your hope to cynicism. Do not accept dysfunction as normal,” he said. “History often changes quietly before it changes visibly.”

The statement marks the end of Hayatu-Deen’s 2026 presidential primary campaign but underscores his continued commitment to the broader project of building a stronger, fairer, and more prosperous Nigeria.