The Peoples Democratic Party’s decision to zone its 2027 Presidential ticket to Southern Nigeria has sparked controversy, particularly among Northern stakeholders, who describe the move as undemocratic and potentially divisive.
At its 102nd National Executive Committee NEC meeting, the PDP resolved to allocate the presidential ticket to the South while maintaining the current National Working Committee led by Acting National Chairman, Ambassador Umar Damagum.
Although some prominent Northern figures such as founding member and former Minister of Information, Jerry Gana support a Southern candidacy, other stakeholders warn that this strategy may backfire. They argue that the move could alienate Northern voters, a region historically known for its electoral strength.
Speaking to newsmen, the National President of the Arewa Youth Consultative Forum, Yerima Shettima, criticised the PDP’s decision, saying it restricts the political rights of qualified Northern aspirants and undermines internal democracy within the party.
He warned that the decision may force Northern leaders to consolidate their support around President Tinubu, despite his Southern origin, in order to protect what they perceive as democratic fairness and regional inclusion.
