By Peter Dansu Th e Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), in a bold political move ahead of the 2027 has officially zoned its presidential ticket...
By Peter Dansu
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), in a bold political move ahead of the 2027 has officially zoned its presidential ticket to the South. This marks a clear shift from its 2023 approach, when the party left the contest open to all regions.
The decision, which aligns with the wishes of the party’s founding fathers, was reached during the PDP’s 101st National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting held in Abuja on Wednesday, report by Vanguard says
In a development already stirring tension within the party, the NEC also announced that the upcoming Elective National Convention will now take place in Ibadan, Oyo State, on November 15 and 16, 2025. Originally scheduled to hold in Kano, this change is being viewed as a move that could further inflame the growing rivalry between FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, and Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde.
Party insiders say the zoning decision is being seen as a strategic endorsement of Makinde’s rising profile within the PDP, especially as whispers of his presidential ambition continue to grow louder.
The NEC meeting, chaired by the party’s acting National Chairman, Ambassador Iliya Damagum, brought together major stakeholders to address crucial matters concerning the PDP’s unity, direction, and preparations for 2027.
Despite recent defections to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Damagum maintained a confident tone, revealing that many defectors had already returned to the PDP fold.
Speaking in the same vein, the Chairman of the party’s Board of Trustees, Senator Adolphus Wabara, said more former members would return once the PDP shows strong, visionary leadership—especially during its national convention.
Bauchi State Governor and Chairman of the PDP Governors Forum, Senator Bala Mohammed, echoed this optimism, affirming that the PDP remains a welcoming home for returning members.
During a closed-door session, the NEC approved the new timetable for the party's elective convention, confirming that the gathering will hold in Ibadan next November. According to party spokesperson, Debo Ologunagba, the NEC is pleased with recent efforts to resolve internal disputes, hailing the party’s enduring spirit of dialogue and understanding.
“The NEC expressed satisfaction over the resolution of all disputes within the party,” he said. “This shows the patriotic nature of our members and our firm commitment to internal democracy and unity.”
However, not everyone sees the recent moves as mere housekeeping. The decision to hold the convention in Makinde’s home turf, Ibadan, is being interpreted as a political maneuver to boost his influence within the party. Observers believe this could shift internal power dynamics ahead of 2027.
An NEC member who spoke anonymously said: “We all agreed it was time to rebuild trust, especially with our members in the South who felt sidelined after the 2023 elections. Zoning the ticket to the South and maintaining the current national office zoning formula is a balancing act. It’s delicate, but necessary.”
While the PDP insists on unity, the fallout between Wike and Makinde remains a sore point. Once close allies, the two have now turned political foes, each accusing the other of betrayal and working against the party’s best interests.
Wike, a former governor of Rivers State and now FCT Minister, has openly accused Makinde of dishonouring party agreements. Meanwhile, Makinde’s camp claims Wike is undermining the PDP from within to aid the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
With the presidential ticket now zoned to the South and Ibadan set to host the crucial convention, all eyes are on the PDP as it navigates these internal rivalries and prepares for what could be a decisive moment in its political journey.
Badagry Today will continue to monitor developments as the PDP repositions itself ahead of the 2027 general elections.
ليست هناك تعليقات