Stakeholders of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in the South-West have endorsed Mohammed Hayatu-Deen’s presidential aspiration ahead of Monday’s primary election.

The endorsement is contained in a statement on Sunday in Abuja by the leader of the ADC South-West Professionals Forum, Babajide Dosunmu, after extensive stakeholder consultations.

The forum described Hayatu-Deen as an aspirant best prepared to reposition Nigeria and tackle the country’s prevailing economic and governance challenges.

Mr Dosunmu said consultations were made with party stakeholders, youth leaders, professionals and mobilisation groups across the South-West geo-political zone before the endorsement of Mr Hayatu-Deen’s aspiration.

He said that the decision followed growing concerns that Nigeria could no longer afford experimental leadership, political theatrics or repeated governance failures by recycled politicians.

“The South-West has always stood for progressive politics, competent governance, intellectual depth and economic transformation. Hayatu-Deen embodies the leadership Nigeria urgently requires presently,” he said.

According to him, Mr Hayatu-Deen’s experience in banking, economic management, public policy and institutional leadership positioned him to address worsening hardship, unemployment, insecurity and declining investor confidence.

“At a time millions struggle daily, businesses collapse, youths lose hope and insecurity threatens stability, Nigeria requires competent leadership. Hayatu-Deen possesses those necessary qualities,” he said.

Mr Dosunmu also commended Mr Hayatu-Deen’s conduct during the primary process, especially his commitment to the party’s governance principles and ethics.

He noted that Mr Hayatu-Deen had publicly urged aspirants to commit themselves to the ADC Governance Principles and Code of Ethics, popularly referred to as ‘The Orange Book.’

“In a political culture lacking accountability, Hayatu-Deen has distinguished himself through integrity, issue-based engagement and commitment to values-driven leadership, character, integrity and leadership mat,” he stated.

Mr Dosunmu urged members participating in Monday’s presidential primaries to support Hayatu-Deen’s candidacy, describing him as ADC’s strongest national alternative for 2027 elections.

“The decision before members transcends personalities. It concerns Nigeria’s future and our party’s credibility. Hayatu-Deen offers ADC its strongest opportunity for effective governance,” he added.

(NAN)