PDP Zones 2027 Presidential Ticket To South

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has zoned its 2027 presidential ticket to the South, reversing its 2023 approach when the ticket was open to all regions.

The decision was ratified at the party’s 101st National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting held in Abuja and is in line with recommendations from the party’s founding fathers.

In a significant development, the NEC also announced a change in venue for its upcoming Elective National Convention, which will now be held in Ibadan, Oyo State, instead of the initially proposed Kano. The convention is scheduled for November 15 and 16, 2025.

The move is seen by insiders as a political win for Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde and a potential blow to the influence of Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike, sparking renewed tensions between their respective camps. While Makinde and Wike were previously allies, they are now on opposing sides within the party, with accusations of betrayal and sabotage flying between their supporters.

Acting National Chairman Ambassador Iliya Damagum presided over the NEC meeting, which brought together key PDP stakeholders to address internal unity and electoral readiness. He acknowledged recent defections to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) but noted that many had already returned to the party.

Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Senator Adolphus Wabara, expressed optimism about more defectors rejoining the party if strong leadership is demonstrated at the upcoming convention. Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi, who chairs the PDP Governors’ Forum, echoed that sentiment and welcomed the return of former members.

During a closed-door session, the NEC The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has zoned its 2027 presidential ticket to the South, reversing its 2023 approach when the ticket was open to all regions. a timetable for the national convention and retained the current zoning arrangement for party offices to avoid further friction. PDP National Publicity Secretary Debo Ologunagba reaffirmed the party’s dedication to internal democracy, emphasizing that disputes were being resolved through dialogue and mutual understanding.

Some NEC members view the choice of Ibadan as a calculated move to consolidate Makinde’s influence. One member described the decision to zone the presidential ticket to the South as a step toward rebuilding trust with southern stakeholders, many of whom felt sidelined during the 2023 election cycle.

Amid these developments, the NEC instructed the National Working Committee (NWC) to pursue legal action to reclaim the seats of lawmakers who defected from the PDP, citing constitutional provisions that disqualify such members. The NEC also reminded members that dual party membership is prohibited and urged those involved with rival parties to recommit fully to the PDP.

To ensure transparency ahead of the convention, the NEC approved the formation of both the National Convention Committee and the Convention Zoning Committee. The next NEC meeting is scheduled for August 25, 2025.