A support group within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) on Tuesday endorsed Mohammed Hayatu-Deen, a former Managing Director of FSB International Bank Plc, as its preferred presidential candidate ahead of the 2027 elections.
- +2027: ADC group backs Hayatu-Deen for president
Addressing journalists in Abuja, members of the group, operating under the aegis of Team Build Nigeria and led by Ebekuo C.
Addressing journalists in Abuja, members of the group, operating under the aegis of Team Build Nigeria and led by Ebekuo C. Ebekuo, said their choice was driven by a desire to restore Nigeria’s “lost glory.”
Ebekuo criticised the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led administration, accusing it of failing to address the country’s socio-economic and security challenges.
He cited Nigeria’s 4th position ranking on the Global Terrorism Index, describing the country as one of the most affected by terrorism in sub-Saharan Africa.
“Kidnapping and banditry have become a plague, while those profiting from violence grow more brazen by the day,” he said.
He added that over 20 million children remain out of school, while more than 40% of children under five suffer stunted growth.
“Rather than address these issues, the ruling APC continues to deploy the judiciary and law enforcement as instruments of political suppression, weakening opposition parties and edging the country towards a one-party state,” he said.
Ebekuo warned that the next president would inherit a distressed economy, a fragile security architecture, and weakened institutions.
He argued that Hayatu-Deen’s experience across banking, aviation, manufacturing, and textiles, as well as his leadership roles in the private sector, positions him as a strong contender for the presidency, disclosing that he would soon declare for presidency.
He also dismissed suggestions that prominent political figures such as former vice president, Atiku Abubakar; former Anambra State governor, Peter Obi;; former Rivers State governor, Rotimi Amaechi; former Kano State governor, Rabiu Kwankwaso, and others could hinder Hayatu-Deen’s chances, noting that “this is a democracy” and that the race remains open.
