By: Daure David
In a landmark decision aimed at fostering unity and regional balance, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has officially zoned its 2027 presidential ticket to the southern region of Nigeria. The resolution was reached during the party’s 102nd National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting held on Monday at the PDP national headquarters in Abuja.
Announcing the outcome, PDP National Publicity Secretary Debo Ologunagba stated that the NEC unanimously adopted the recommendation of the zoning committee, chaired by Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri. “The NEC resolved that the presidential ticket of our great party for the 2027 general election is hereby zoned to the South,” Ologunagba declared.
The decision marks a strategic shift from the 2023 elections, where the ticket was open to all regions. Party insiders say the move is designed to rebuild trust, strengthen internal cohesion, and position the PDP as a formidable contender ahead of the next general elections.
In addition to the presidential zoning, the NEC reaffirmed the existing National Working Committee (NWC) zoning arrangement, maintaining the distribution of party offices between the North and South. Ambassador Umar Iliya Damagum, who had been serving in an acting capacity, was also confirmed as the substantive National Chairman of the party.
The PDP’s elective national convention is scheduled for November 15–16 in Ibadan, Oyo State, where key leadership positions will be contested. The party leadership expressed confidence that the convention will serve as a critical step in galvanizing support and preparing for the 2027 electoral battle.
Political observers anticipate a flurry of activity in the South as aspirants begin to position themselves for the PDP’s presidential ticket, setting the stage for a potentially transformative election cycle.
