By Chibuike Nkwede
The race for the 2027 presidential election is gaining momentum within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) following the purchase of presidential nomination forms by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi, and economist Mohammed Hayatu-Deen.
The development comes less than one year before the general election and only weeks ahead of party conventions expected to produce presidential candidates across the country.
Mohammed Hayatu-Deen emerged as the first aspirant to obtain the ADC presidential nomination form, officially declaring his intention to contest the party’s ticket for the 2027 election.
The party described Hayatu-Deen as a seasoned economist, banker, investor, and corporate leader from Borno State with extensive experience in economic management, financial transformation, and national development. He was reportedly received by supporters and party faithful during the exercise.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has also joined the contest after receiving his payment receipt for the nomination form. He is expected to formally submit the form at the ADC national secretariat in Abuja on Monday.
The party said Atiku’s entry into the race represents another major step in its push for national renewal, democratic inclusion, and people-oriented leadership ahead of the 2027 polls.
Former Minister of Transportation and ex-Rivers governor, Rotimi Amaechi, had earlier obtained his nomination form to participate in the ADC presidential primary.
The form was collected on his behalf by a party chieftain, Chief John Oyegun, alongside former Minister of Environment Mohammed Abdullahi, Senator Nura Abatemi, Ike Bishop Okoronkwo, and other political stakeholders.
With the latest developments, the ADC presidential contest is expected to intensify in the coming weeks as aspirants begin consultations and campaigns ahead of the party primaries.
The ADC remains one of the notable opposition parties preparing for the 2027 elections, despite the recent exit of former presidential candidates Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso from the party.