Atiku Takes Early Lead in ADC Presidential Primaries, Wins Five States

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has taken an early lead in the presidential primaries of the African Democratic Congress after securing victories in five states.

The ongoing primary election is expected to determine the party’s presidential candidate for the 2027 general election.

Atiku is contesting the ticket alongside former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi and economist Mohammed Hayatu-Deen.

Although the ADC leadership is yet to officially announce final nationwide results, figures emerging from several states show Atiku maintaining a strong early lead.

The former vice president reportedly won in Gombe, Abia, Ebonyi, Sokoto and Zamfara states, strengthening expectations that he may emerge as the party’s flagbearer if the trend continues.

In Gombe State, Returning Officer Prof. David Agbu announced that Atiku secured 139,334 votes, while Amaechi polled 1,150 votes and Hayatu-Deen received 464 votes.

Atiku also led in Abia State with 25,153 votes, ahead of Amaechi’s 18,339 votes and Hayatu-Deen’s 3,264 votes.

In Ebonyi State, results announced by ADC National Vice Chairman (Diaspora), Fred Onwe, showed Atiku polling 15,300 votes. Amaechi secured 2,200 votes while Hayatu-Deen recorded 200 votes.

The Sokoto results also favoured Atiku, who polled 68,823 votes compared to Amaechi’s 292 votes and Hayatu-Deen’s 319 votes.

In Zamfara State, Atiku secured 60,500 votes, while Hayatu-Deen polled 436 votes and Amaechi received 191 votes.

The primary election is being closely watched as opposition parties continue coalition talks and political realignments ahead of the 2027 general election.

Atiku, who previously contested the presidency under the Peoples Democratic Party in 2019 and 2023, remains one of the most prominent opposition figures in the country.

Political analysts say the ADC primary could significantly influence broader opposition strategies aimed at challenging the ruling All Progressives Congress in 2027.

Party officials are expected to announce the full collated results from the remaining states and the Federal Capital Territory later today.