The African Democratic Congress on Wednesday screened former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, and former Managing Director of FSB International Bank, Mohammed Hayatu-Deen, ahead of the party’s presidential primary for the 2027 general election.
The exercise, held behind closed doors at the Transcorp Hilton in Abuja, was conducted by a panel headed by former Cross River State governor, Liyel Imoke, with Cyril Maduabum serving as secretary.
Hayatu-Deen arrived at the venue around 10:50am and spent about an hour before the screening committee, while Atiku appeared before the panel shortly after noon.
Addressing journalists after the exercise, Hayatu-Deen described the process as successful and expressed readiness for either a consensus arrangement or direct primary.
“I spent approximately one hour in the room and it went very well. We are now at a pivotal moment in the campaign process,” he said.
The former banker also pledged to run what he described as a disciplined and issue-based campaign focused on insecurity, unemployment, poor infrastructure and the rising cost of living if he secures the party’s ticket.
“I will wage a campaign that is disciplined, focused, and geared towards meeting the yearnings and aspirations of Nigerians at a very difficult moment in the nation’s history,” he stated.
On his chances in a direct contest, Hayatu-Deen said he had adequately prepared for the race, noting that seeking the presidency required careful planning and credibility.
Shortly after Hayatu-Deen’s appearance, Atiku walked into the screening hall but declined to speak extensively with reporters after the exercise.
“The screening went well,” the former vice president said briefly.
Atiku, one of the country’s leading opposition figures, is seeking the ADC ticket amid ongoing coalition talks and political realignments ahead of the 2027 elections.
As of the time of filing this report, former Rivers State governor and ex-Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, was yet to appear for his screening.
The ADC is expected to conclude its screening exercise before deciding whether to adopt a consensus candidate or proceed with direct primaries to determine its presidential flag bearer.
