According to report by Vanguard News on Thursday, April 30, 2026, Mohammed Hayatudeen, a presidential aspirant on the platform of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has cautioned Nigerians against focusing on zoning debates ahead of the 2027 elections, arguing that such discussions distract from the country’s pressing challenges.
The economist and policy expert urged a shift in attention to critical issues such as insecurity, economic hardship, and unemployment.
Hayatudeen questioned the relevance of zoning in the face of worsening national conditions. He cited recent cases of mass abductions, killings, and widespread poverty, asking how regional power rotation addresses the struggles of citizens who cannot afford basic necessities or access education.
According to him, Nigeria’s leadership should be determined by competence, integrity, and empathy rather than geographical considerations.
He further linked the country’s insecurity to prolonged economic mismanagement, noting that decades of poor performance have significantly increased poverty levels.
He estimated that over 100 million Nigerians are currently living below the poverty line, a situation he believes fuels instability and violence across the country.
Dismissing claims that insecurity is primarily driven by election cycles, Hayatudeen said available data does not support that argument.
He explained that his analysis, supported by both local and international research institutions, points instead to deeper structural and economic causes.
On his decision to contest under the ADC after previously aligning with another party, he said the party’s ideology and leadership resonate with his vision for national development.
He praised the party’s commitment to addressing the rising cost of living, job creation, and poverty reduction.
Hayatudeen also raised concerns about what he described as a narrowing democratic space, alleging that actions by those in power are restricting political freedom and limiting Nigerians’ ability to make genuine electoral choices.