Renowned economist and presidential aspirant, Mohammed Hayatu-Deen, on Wednesday submitted his presidential nomination form under the African Democratic Congress, urging the party to prioritise competence over zoning.

Hayatu-Deen, speaking after the submission, said the party leadership is best positioned to decide whether to adopt a consensus option or direct primary election, depending on what would favour the party’s chances.

He stressed that competence should take precedence, noting that anyone aspiring to the presidency should be seen as a quintessential Nigerian rather than defined by regional origin.

According to him, the process now offers Nigerians choices for representation across various elective positions, with the presidency as the highest office.

Expressing confidence in his ambition, Hayatu-Deen said he is fully prepared to contest and optimistic about his chances at the primaries, including against Atiku Abubakar.

He added that the decision on the mode of primaries—whether consensus or direct—remains within the framework of the Electoral Act and will ultimately be determined by the party leadership.

Meanwhile, Atiku Abubakar is scheduled to submit his own presidential nomination form on Thursday, May 14.