Former presidential aspirant Mohammed Hayatu-Deen has officially left the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to join the African Democratic Congress (ADC), citing worsening insecurity, rising cost of living, and concerns over Nigeria’s democratic environment.
In a statement issued on Sunday, Hayatu-Deen said his decision was driven by the need for a credible political alternative capable of addressing insecurity, economic instability, and unemployment ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He said the PDP’s ongoing internal crisis had weakened its ability to serve as a viable platform for national transformation, adding that many of its members have been defecting to other political parties, including the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and opposition coalition groups.
Hayatu-Deen said he would actively participate in the ADC’s political activities, pledging to use his experience in business and economic reform to support the party’s bid for the presidency in 2027.
“Like many of you, I want a safer, more prosperous future for Nigeria… the nation faces fundamental problems that are being ignored,” he said.
He added that his entry into politics in 2022 was motivated by a desire to address national challenges, but expressed disappointment that public expectations had not been met since then.
“This is why I have taken the decision to join the ADC, which I know is the vehicle for change,” he said.
Hayatu-Deen also warned about what he described as a shrinking democratic space in the country, arguing that political expression and opposition activity were increasingly under pressure.
“Voices are being stifled, institutions are under strain, and the space for credible opposition and real choice is being systematically closed,” he stated.
He stressed that democracy must provide Nigerians with genuine alternatives and renewed public confidence in governance.
The economist also highlighted his professional background, noting his experience in corporate leadership, economic reform, and philanthropic work aimed at improving education access in insecure regions.
He pledged to use that experience to help the ADC build a platform focused on security, economic growth, and job creation.
“From this day onwards until the 2027 elections, I will campaign relentlessly… to help the ADC win the elections and deliver the better future Nigeria desperately deserves,” he said.
The defection comes amid ongoing internal challenges within the PDP, which has recently faced a wave of high-profile exits and political realignments ahead of the next general elections.
