NDC Zones 2027 Presidential Ticket to South, Opens Door for Obi, Others

The Nigeria Democratic Congress has zoned its 2027 presidential ticket to the South for a single four-year term, a decision expected to reshape the party’s succession battle and boost the chances of southern contenders, including Peter Obi.

The resolution was adopted on Saturday during the party’s national convention following a motion moved by Rep. Afam Victor Ogene, who represents Ogbaru Federal Constituency of Anambra State. Delegates reportedly approved the proposal unanimously.

Under the arrangement, the South will produce the party’s presidential candidate for the 2027 election only, after which the ticket will revert to the North at the end of the four-year tenure.

The decision is seen as ending months of internal debate within the party over the regional direction of its presidential slot. By restricting the 2027 contest to southern aspirants, the party has effectively paved the way for major political figures from the region to enter the race.

The development is particularly significant for Obi, who contested the 2023 presidential election, as it clears a major hurdle to his possible participation under the NDC platform. Other southern aspirants are also now free to obtain nomination forms ahead of the contest.

Party leaders described the zoning formula as a strategic move aimed at balancing regional inclusion with electoral calculations ahead of 2027.

However, some party members are expected to closely monitor whether the agreement to return the ticket to the North after one term will remain intact as political negotiations intensify closer to the election.