Atiku, Hayatu-Deen Move To Heal ADC Rift After Primary Dispute

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has begun reconciliation efforts within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) after a tense presidential primary. On Sunday, Atiku met privately with Mohammed Hayatu-Deen at his Lagos residence, seeking to mend divisions that followed the party’s recent contest.

Closed-Door Talks
The meeting comes days after Atiku was declared the ADC presidential candidate for the 2027 general election. Hayatu-Deen, who withdrew from the race before results were announced, had alleged widespread irregularities and vote manipulation. His withdrawal left Atiku and Rotimi Amaechi as the main contenders, with Atiku securing 1,846,370 votes, Amaechi 504,117, and Hayatu-Deen 177,120.

Allegations of Malpractice
Hayatu-Deen’s exit was marked by strong criticism of the process. He accused party officials of overseeing a flawed exercise, citing reports of vote rigging and disenfranchisement. Amaechi also rejected the outcome, describing the primary as “concocted.” Both men’s grievances have cast a shadow over Atiku’s victory, raising questions about unity within the ADC.

Atiku’s Reconciliation Drive
Since clinching the ticket, Atiku has prioritized healing internal rifts. He previously met Amaechi to discuss national issues, including insecurity and economic decline, while stressing the need for collective patriotism. His latest engagement with Hayatu-Deen signals a broader strategy to consolidate support and prevent defections ahead of the general election.

Party Leadership’s Position
ADC National Chairman, Senator David Mark, defended the primary, calling it largely free and fair despite minor challenges. He emphasized that while all aspirants were qualified, only one candidate could emerge. Mark’s stance underscores the party’s determination to project stability despite internal disputes.

Political Realignment
Atiku and Amaechi joined the ADC in July 2025, part of a wider opposition realignment aimed at challenging President Bola Tinubu in 2027. Their entry reshaped the party’s profile, attracting national attention and raising expectations of a strong challenge to the ruling party.

What Lies Ahead
Hayatu-Deen is expected to address journalists following the reconciliation meeting. His response will be crucial in determining whether the ADC can move past the primary controversy. For Atiku, uniting the party is essential to mounting a credible campaign against Tinubu’s administration.

The reconciliation efforts highlight the delicate balance between ambition and unity in Nigeria’s opposition politics. Whether these talks succeed will shape the ADC’s strength heading into a decisive election season.