Atiku Meets Hayatu-Deen in Reconciliation Push After ADC Primary

Former Vice President and African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, on Sunday held a closed-door meeting with his rival, Muhammad Hayatu-Deen, at his Lagos residence in what appears to be a reconciliation move following the party’s recently concluded presidential primary.

According to Channels Television, the meeting comes days after Atiku emerged winner of the ADC presidential primary and was officially presented with the party flag, signalling his status as the party’s flagbearer for the 2027 general election.

The development comes amid lingering tensions within the party over the conduct and outcome of the exercise, with some aspirants rejecting the results and alleging irregularities.

Party tensions linger after contested primary

Former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, and Hayatu-Deen had earlier dismissed the outcome of the primary, accusing party officials of manipulation in the voting process. Hayatu-Deen also declined to attend the formal announcement of the results, further highlighting divisions within the party.

The grievances have raised concerns within ADC circles about internal unity as the party prepares for the next general election cycle.

Atiku’s meeting with Hayatu-Deen is therefore being interpreted by party insiders as part of efforts to calm tensions and rebuild trust among leading figures who participated in the contest.

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Atiku calls for unity after securing nomination

Following his victory at the primary, Atiku had appealed to aggrieved aspirants and party members to put aside differences and work collectively in strengthening the party ahead of the elections.

“I therefore appeal to all those who feel aggrieved to come back to our party and close ranks with the rest of us,” Atiku said shortly after receiving the party’s flag.

He also extended a direct call to his rivals, urging them to join him in what he described as a broader national mission.

“In particular, I invite Chief Rotimi Amaechi and Alhaji Muhammad Hayatu-Deen to join me in this fight to save our democracy and our country,” he said.

Atiku stressed that internal competition should not translate into permanent divisions within the party, insisting that unity remained critical to electoral success.

Broader reconciliation efforts underway

Sunday’s meeting with Hayatu-Deen follows a similar engagement with Rotimi Amaechi at the former Rivers State governor’s Abuja residence earlier in the week. Both meetings are widely seen as part of Atiku’s ongoing consultations aimed at consolidating support within the ADC.

Atiku has maintained that there are no “winners and losers” in the aftermath of the primary, arguing that all stakeholders remain essential to the party’s broader political objectives.

He pledged continued engagement with other aspirants and party leaders, saying he intends to work collectively with them in the build-up to the general election.

Party observers say the reconciliation efforts may be crucial in determining how united the ADC will be as it positions itself against other major political parties ahead of the 2027 polls.

Segun Lasisi

A Lagos-based journalist with a passion for disseminating factual information and a deep appreciation for good music, good food, movies, and beautiful cars. He hopes to travel the world someday, documenting its beauty and diverse cultures through his storytelling.