By Peter Omopo
The Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) decision to zone its 2027 presidential ticket to the South has triggered sharp divisions within the party, especially among northern stakeholders, many of whom describe the move as unfair and undemocratic.
The resolution was reached at the party’s 102nd National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting on Monday, which also retained the current National Working Committee led by Ambassador Umar Damagum.
While some northern PDP figures, including elder statesman Prof. Jerry Gana, had earlier backed power rotation to the South, others warned the decision could cost the party crucial votes from a region with historically strong electoral influence.
Reactions from the North
The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) criticised the zoning, with its president, Yerima Shettima, saying the move “sidelined qualified northern aspirants” and could strengthen President Bola Tinubu’s re-election chances under the ruling APC.
Similarly, the North Central Renaissance Movement rejected the decision, arguing that the North Central zone—yet to produce a president or vice president—deserved consideration. Its chair, Prof. K’tso Nghargbu, said continued marginalisation risked alienating millions of voters in the region.
A coalition of northern youth groups under the Joint Action Committee of Northern Youth Associations (JACON) also denounced the zoning as “anti-democratic” and a “betrayal” of the North’s long-standing support for the PDP. The Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) echoed the criticism, insisting the party should allow an open contest.
The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), however, urged caution, noting it was too early to conclude on zoning ahead of the 2027 polls.
Voices in Support
In contrast, some groups and leaders have backed the PDP’s move. Former Senate President Bukola Saraki said zoning to the South reflected fairness, given that the North had produced the party’s candidates in 2019 and 2023. The Middle Belt Forum (MBF) also endorsed the arrangement, stressing it was in line with the PDP’s rotational policy since 1999.
PDP chapters in Nasarawa, Niger, Kwara, and Yobe States publicly aligned with the NEC’s decision, with party officials describing it as a “balanced” arrangement that strengthens internal stability.
In Nasarawa, the Christian Northern Nigeria Political Forum (CNNPF) expressed support, while in Yobe, former Speaker Usman Sugum argued that the zoning could create a healthier competitive environment in 2027.
Party at a Crossroads
Despite endorsements from some quarters, dissent remains widespread in the North. Analysts warn the zoning debate could deepen internal cracks within the opposition party as it seeks to regain relevance after years out of power.
Political analyst Dr. Ibrahim Ahmed, speaking from Kaduna, noted that alienating northern voters—long considered the PDP’s stronghold—could weaken the party further.
Meanwhile, speculation is growing that the PDP may consider former President Goodluck Jonathan as a potential southern candidate for 2027.
