Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has been declared the winner of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential primary election held in Sokoto State. The announcement was made on Monday, May 25, 2026, by the state chief returning officer, Prof. Aminu Abubakar.
The primary election was conducted across all 23 local government areas of Sokoto State. According to Prof. Abubakar, Atiku secured 68,823 votes to emerge victorious. He defeated former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, who garnered 292 votes, and Muhammad Hayatuddeen, who received 319 votes.
Prof. Abubakar stated that a total of 69,434 votes were cast during the primary. The results were announced in the presence of officials from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security personnel, and party stakeholders.
“I therefore hereby declare Alhaji Atiku Abubakar as the presidential candidate with the highest number of votes cast in Sokoto,” Abubakar said.
Details of the ADC Primary
The ADC presidential primary in Sokoto State saw participation from delegates across the state. The process was closely monitored by INEC officials to ensure transparency. Security was also tight to prevent any disruptions.
Atiku Abubakar, a former vice-president, has been a prominent figure in Nigerian politics. His victory in the ADC primary positions him as a key candidate for the upcoming presidential election. Rotimi Amaechi, a former transportation minister, and Muhammad Hayatuddeen also contested but failed to secure significant support.
The primary election is part of the ADC's efforts to select its flagbearer for the 2027 general elections. The party hopes to build on its presence in Sokoto State and across the country.
Reactions and Next Steps
Following the announcement, supporters of Atiku Abubakar celebrated the victory. The ADC is expected to officially ratify the results at its national convention. Atiku's campaign team has expressed confidence in winning the general election.
The primary election in Sokoto is one of several held by political parties ahead of the 2027 elections. The Independent National Electoral Commission has urged all parties to conduct free and fair primaries.
