The African Democratic Congress on Monday began its presidential primary ahead of the 2027 general elections, with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and ex-Transport Minister Rotimi Amaechi participating in the nationwide exercise.
The primary, which is being conducted across 8,809 wards in the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, follows the party’s adoption of a direct primary method after its three presidential aspirants reportedly declined calls to step down for a consensus candidate.
Atiku, in a post on Monday, said he joined other party members in casting his vote at the Ajiya Ward Polling Unit in Jimeta, Yola, Adamawa State, describing the exercise as a demonstration of democracy.
“I joined other prospective voters of the African Democratic Congress in our party’s presidential primaries in casting my vote at the Ajiya Ward Polling Unit in Jimeta Yola, Adamawa State.
This is democracy at work. The election taking place simultaneously in 8,809 Wards in Nigeria is a major step in our quest to recover our beloved country and set it on the path of prosperity,” he said.
In Rivers State, Amaechi participated in the exercise at Ubima, where he cast his ballot at his polling unit and addressed supporters during the process, urging voters to prioritise competence in leadership.
“Vote for merit, not ethnicity or religion,” Amaechi said.
He was also seen engaging with residents in Ubima as voting continued across polling units nationwide.
Meanwhile, Hayatu-Deen, who participated from Borno State, called on supporters to turn out and back his candidacy, urging a “new direction” for the party.
“I am live in Borno for the ADC Presidential Primaries. To all our members; my supporters – come out and vote for a new direction. Vote MHD for ADC,” he said.
The ADC had earlier opted for a direct primary process after efforts to reach a consensus candidate reportedly failed, with all three aspirants remaining in the race.
Party stakeholders say the exercise is a key step in selecting the party’s presidential candidate for the 2027 elections, with officials urging peaceful participation across all voting centres.
As the process continues, the outcome is expected to shape the ADC’s standing ahead of what is anticipated to be a highly competitive presidential contest in 2027.
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