Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has taken an early lead in the African Democratic Congress presidential primaries after securing victories in five states during the ongoing nationwide exercise.
The presidential contest, which is drawing significant political attention ahead of the 2027 general election, is being contested by Atiku, former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi and economist Mohammed Hayatu-Deen.
Atiku Records Strong Early Performance
Results emerging from several states showed Atiku maintaining a comfortable lead as delegates continued voting to determine the party’s presidential candidate.
The former vice president reportedly won in Gombe, Abia, Ebonyi, Sokoto and Zamfara states.
Political analysts say the early results have strengthened expectations that Atiku could emerge as the ADC presidential flagbearer if the trend continues during final collation.
Breakdown Of State Results
In Gombe State, results announced by Returning Officer Prof. David Agbu showed that Atiku secured 139,334 votes.
Amaechi polled 1,150 votes, while Hayatu-Deen received 464 votes.
In Abia State, Atiku recorded 25,153 votes ahead of Amaechi’s 18,339 votes, while Hayatu-Deen scored 3,264 votes.
Ebonyi State also delivered a wide margin victory for the former vice president, with results announced by ADC National Vice Chairman (Diaspora), Fred Onwe, showing Atiku polling 15,300 votes.
Amaechi secured 2,200 votes in the state, while Hayatu-Deen received 200 votes.
In Sokoto State, Atiku continued his dominance with 68,823 votes. Amaechi scored 292 votes, while Hayatu-Deen polled 319 votes.
Zamfara State followed a similar pattern as Atiku obtained 60,500 votes, while Hayatu-Deen scored 436 votes and Amaechi received 191 votes.
ADC Primary Seen As Major Opposition Test
The ongoing ADC primary is widely viewed as a major political test ahead of the 2027 election as opposition figures continue coalition discussions.
Atiku, who previously contested the presidency under the Peoples Democratic Party in 2019 and 2023, remains one of the most influential opposition politicians in Nigeria.
Amaechi entered the race promising institutional reforms and stronger party democracy, while Hayatu-Deen focused his campaign on economic restructuring and private sector growth.
Final Results Expected Soon
The ADC national leadership is expected to officially announce the complete presidential primary results after collation from the remaining states and the Federal Capital Territory.
Political observers believe the outcome could influence future coalition talks among opposition parties preparing for the 2027 general election.