Presidential aspirant on the platform of the African Democratic Congress, Muhammed Hayatu-Deen, in this Interview with ADEMU IDAKWO, speaks on the 2027 elections, zoning, the economy, insecurity and his ambition to lead Nigeria
You are going into a primary against political heavyweights like Atiku Abubakar and Rotimi Amaechi. Why should delegates of the African Democratic Congress choose you over them?
I have been assured of a transparent process, and I strongly believe in the leadership of our party under the guidance of Senator David Mark.
I am confident that the primary election will be conducted peacefully, fairly and without rancour.
So far, I have been impressed with the process, from purchasing the nomination form to this moment. Since I joined the party last year, I have not experienced any disappointment.
Despite the challenges and obstacles placed before the party, we were still able to conduct our convention successfully.
We have also overcome the legal traps set by our political adversaries because we remain united as one body with a common purpose.
Given the limited time before the elections, the party may even decide to adopt a consensus process rather than a direct primary.
Whichever method is eventually adopted, I remain hopeful and optimistic that I will emerge as the party’s flagbearer. Senator David Mark is a highly disciplined leader who believes strongly in due process and internal democracy.
I also have absolute confidence in the National Working Committee of our great party. I believe justice will prevail, and the process will be handled transparently without bitterness, acrimony or division.
What if you are not chosen at the end of the process? Will you leave the party?
No, I will not leave the party. Let me tell you, it took me a long time to reflect and consult before I decided on the next political platform through which I would advance my political career.
I eventually settled on the ADC after leaving the Peoples Democratic Party because I carefully studied the party’s manifesto and found it perfectly aligned with my vision and aspirations for Nigeria.
Therefore, if I am not fortunate enough to secure the presidential ticket this time around, I will wholeheartedly support whoever emerges as the candidate. We must work together as a united team to ensure the party’s total victory in 2027.
As I have always maintained, there is no justification for abandoning a political party simply because one failed to secure a ticket or is afraid of losing in the primary election.
If you genuinely love your country, you can serve the people in any capacity. You do not necessarily have to become President before you can contribute meaningfully to national development.
I left the People’s Democratic Party because I no longer saw any future there. The party was weakened by internal crises, excessive monetisation of politics and the selfish interests of certain leaders.
From my background in the private sector as a banker and economist, I have contributed significantly to the development of the real sector of the economy.
One of my biggest regrets is that many professionals and technocrats in the corporate world refused to participate actively in politics and governance.
