ADC clears Atiku, Amaechi, Hayatu-Deen for direct presidential primaries

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has cleared three presidential aspirants, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi, and economist Mohammed Hayatu-Deen, to participate in its direct presidential primaries ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The party’s presidential screening committee confirmed that all three candidates scaled the screening process and will now proceed to the nationwide direct primaries scheduled for Monday across 8,809 wards.

In addition to the presidential race, the ADC also cleared 513 House of Representatives aspirants, 109 senatorial candidates, and 80 governorship aspirants to participate in the party’s nomination process.

According to the committee, chaired by former Cross River State Governor Senator Liyel Imoke, the decision followed a review of all aspirants ahead of the primaries. Other members include CID Maduabum, Lawal Batagarawa, Bode Ayorinde, Nnenna Elendu-Ukeje, David Salifu, and retired Colonel Abubakar Ali Ciroma.

A source within the committee said none of the presidential hopefuls agreed to step down for the others, prompting the party to proceed with full direct primaries in line with electoral guidelines issued by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Speaking after his screening, Amaechi maintained that he is not interested in a vice-presidential slot, insisting his ambition remains the presidency. He also stated that he would abolish the federal character principle if elected, arguing for equal citizenship rights across the country.

Hayatu-Deen, while not confirming any withdrawal arrangement, said he would abide by the party’s decisions as the process unfolds.

The primaries are expected to hold across all wards of the federation on Monday, May 25.

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