Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar defeated former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi and businessman Mohammed Hayatu-Deen to win the African Democratic Congress presidential ticket on Tuesday. Party officials declared Atiku the winner after collation of results from states across Nigeria.
Atiku Abubakar polled over 1.1 million votes across 21 states. He built strong leads in northern states. In Sokoto State, Atiku Abubakar secured 68,824 votes while Amaechi and Hayatu-Deen trailed far behind. Transitioning to other regions, similar patterns emerged as results favoured the former vice president.
Rotimi Amaechi challenged the outcome and rejected the results. He described the process as flawed and claimed widespread irregularities. Meanwhile Mohammed Hayatu-Deen also expressed dissatisfaction and boycotted parts of the announcement. Despite their objections, party leaders confirmed Atiku Abubakar as the nominee.
Atiku Abubakar addressed supporters after the declaration. He thanked party members for their trust and pledged to unify the opposition ahead of the 2027 election. The primary took place amid efforts to build a strong platform against the ruling party. Officials conducted the exercise in Gombe and other centres.
Party chairman and officials defended the transparency of the polls. However, both Amaechi and Hayatu-Deen raised concerns about disenfranchisement. Rotimi Amaechi stated that many members did not vote due to alleged manipulation. These disputes cast a shadow on the victory even as Atiku Abubakar celebrated with loyalists.
The win positions Atiku Abubakar as the ADC flag bearer. Analysts expect him to begin strategic meetings to consolidate support. Party members called for calm as they prepare for the general elections.
