The African Democratic Congress (ADC) on Monday, May 25, commenced its presidential primary ahead of the 2027 general elections, with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, ex-Transport Minister Rotimi Amaechi, and Mohammed Hayatu-Deen taking part in the nationwide exercise.
The election is being conducted simultaneously across 8,809 wards in all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, following the party’s decision to adopt a direct primary format after attempts to agree on a consensus candidate reportedly failed.
Atiku participated in the process at Ajiya Ward Polling Unit in Jimeta, Yola, Adamawa State, where he described the exercise as a reflection of democratic practice.
“I joined other prospective voters of the African Democratic Congress in our party’s presidential primaries in casting my vote at the Ajiya Ward Polling Unit in Jimeta Yola, Adamawa State.
“This is democracy at work. The election taking place simultaneously in 8,809 Wards in Nigeria is a major step in our quest to recover our beloved country and set it on the path of prosperity,” he said.
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In Rivers State, Amaechi voted at Ubima, his hometown polling unit, where he also engaged supporters and urged them to prioritise competence in leadership selection.
“Vote for merit, not ethnicity or religion,” Amaechi said.
Hayatu-Deen, who voted in Borno State, appealed to party members to back his candidacy, calling for what he described as a fresh direction for the party.
“I am live in Borno for the ADC Presidential Primaries. To all our members; my supporters – come out and vote for a new direction. Vote MHD for ADC,” he said.
Party officials said the direct primary was adopted to ensure wider participation after consensus efforts collapsed, adding that the exercise remains a key step in determining the party’s flagbearer for the 2027 polls.