Atiku Leads ADC Primary in Strong Early Election Win

Atiku takes an early lead in the ADC presidential primary after winning five states in preliminary results ahead of the 2027 election

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has taken an early lead in the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential primary election after recording victories in five states across the country.

Also read: Atiku Defeats Amaechi in ADC Presidential Primary in Abia

The contest, which is ongoing nationwide, is expected to determine the party’s presidential candidate for the 2027 general elections, with results still being collated from remaining states and the Federal Capital Territory.

Atiku is contesting against former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, and economist Mohammed Hayatu-Deen.

Although the ADC national leadership has not yet released the final official collation, figures obtained from several states indicate that Atiku is maintaining a clear advantage.

The former vice president reportedly secured victories in Gombe, Abia, Ebonyi, Sokoto and Zamfara states, strengthening his early position in the race.

In Gombe State, results announced by the Returning Officer, Prof. David Agbu, showed Atiku polled 139,334 votes, while Amaechi and Hayatu-Deen trailed significantly.

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

Ebonyi State results, announced by ADC National Vice Chairman (Diaspora), Fred Onwe, gave Atiku 15,300 votes, with Amaechi and Hayatu-Deen polling 2,200 and 200 votes respectively.

In Sokoto State, Atiku secured 68,823 votes, while Amaechi and Hayatu-Deen trailed with 292 and 319 votes.

In Zamfara State, Atiku also dominated with 60,500 votes, ahead of Hayatu-Deen and Amaechi.

The ADC primary is widely seen as a major test of strength within Nigeria’s opposition bloc, as parties position themselves ahead of the 2027 elections.

Atiku, a former presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), remains one of the most influential figures in opposition politics.

Amaechi has campaigned on institutional reform and party democracy, while Hayatu-Deen has focused on economic restructuring and private sector-led growth.

Also read: Bauchi ADC Endorses Atiku for 2027 Presidential Race

Party officials are expected to announce the final results after collation is completed nationwide.