The decision of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to zone its 2027 presidential ticket to the South has triggered sharp reactions from across the North, with leaders and youth groups accusing the party of sidelining its most loyal voting bloc.
The party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) took the decision during its 102nd meeting, retaining its current National Working Committee under Ambassador Umar Damagum.
Frontpagenews.ng reports that this has reignited the long-running debate over power rotation in Nigeria’s democracy, especially as President Bola Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress (APC) prepares to seek re-election.
Northern Elders Voice Frustrations
Yerima Shettima, President of the Arewa Youth Consultative Forum, said the PDP’s decision appeared to “constrain fundamental rights” by sidelining Northern aspirants. He warned the move could drive the North into an alliance with Tinubu and the APC.
Shettima explained: “The North may opt to rally behind the incumbent, particularly if they perceive that the PDP’s choice is exclusionary and undermines their representation.”
North Central Calls for Equity
Professor K’tso Nghargbu of the North Central Renaissance Movement expressed disappointment that the PDP ignored the North Central zone, which has never produced a President or Vice President.
“We reject the PDP decision that zoned its 2027 presidential ticket to the South,” he said. “Our region deserves fairness and equity.”
Youth and Pressure Groups Oppose Zoning
The Joint Action Committee of Northern Youth Associations (JACON) described the decision as a “betrayal.” Spokesman Sani Yaya warned of “grave political consequences” if the PDP fails to reconsider.
The Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) echoed the concerns, stressing that zoning should not override open competition. Its coordinator Jamilu Charanchi insisted, “In politics, it should be an open contest.”
Diverse Voices within the Party
Reactions within the PDP remain split. Former Senate President Bukola Saraki hailed the zoning as “fair” and in line with rotational justice, while Yusuf Dingyadi, another party leader, warned it was “unfortunate and ill-timed.”
The Middle Belt Forum supported the move, with President Bitrus Pogu saying the PDP was only following its internal agreement. PDP leaders in Niger and Nasarawa also aligned with NEC’s decision, calling it a “fair judgment.”
Analysts Warn of Electoral Implications
Dr. Ibrahim Ahmed, a Kaduna-based political analyst, said zoning to the South might cost the PDP its most reliable votes in the North. Meanwhile, the Arewa Consultative Forum urged caution, noting it was “too early” for definitive positions.
Support Across States
In Kwara, PDP spokesperson Olusegun Adewara welcomed the NEC’s “balanced decision,” while in Yobe, Usman Sugum, former Speaker of the State Assembly, described it as a move that could foster healthier competition in 2027.
Some party stakeholders even floated the possibility of Goodluck Jonathan returning to complete his tenure.
As the PDP grapples with internal dissent, the party faces the delicate task of balancing equity, zoning traditions, and electoral realities ahead of 2027.
