Mohammed Hayatu-Deen, a former presidential aspirant within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has officially switched his allegiance to the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
He attributed this move to the worsening state of national security, the severe economic difficulties facing citizens, and what he characterized as a dwindling democratic environment in the country.
In a formal statement released on Sunday, the former banker explained that his defection was necessitated by a search for a political party truly capable of fostering significant progress.
He shared his vision by stating: “Like many of you, I want a safer, more prosperous future for Nigeria, but the nation faces fundamental problems that are being ignored.”
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Reflecting on his 2022 run for the PDP presidential ticket, Hayatu-Deen noted that he originally joined the political fray to help build the nation during a time he viewed as a “wide-open democratic space”.
He lamented, however, that the hopes held by many Nigerians have resulted in “bitter disappointment”.
Explaining his new path, he said: “This is why I have taken the decision to join the ADC, which I know is the vehicle for change.”
The former chairman of the Nigerian Economic Summit Group emphasized that the populace is calling for leadership that prioritizes solving the cost-of-living crisis and high unemployment.
He noted: “Every day I hear from people across Nigeria that they want a government that is focused on fixing the problems and delivering a safer and more prosperous future for their families.”
He further characterized the desires of the public by saying: “Aspirational Nigerians want a steady, calm and credible government alternative that will tackle insecurity, reduce the cost of living, and foster job creation.”
Beyond economic concerns, he expressed alarm over the state of Nigeria’s political institutions and the treatment of dissenting views.
He warned: “I am also deeply concerned about the increasing shrinkage of our democratic space. Voices are being stifled, institutions are under strain, and the space for credible opposition and real choice is being systematically closed. Democracy must offer Nigerians genuine options.”
Looking ahead to the next election cycle, Hayatu-Deen vowed to be a dedicated grassroots operative for his new party.
He pledged: “From this day onwards until the 2027 elections, I will campaign relentlessly as a party member to help the ADC win the elections and deliver the better future Nigeria desperately deserves.”
This move follows his 2023 primary run, which he exited prematurely after raising alarms regarding the excessive monetisation of the electoral process.
