By CHARLES CHIJIOKE
The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has officially zoned its presidential ticket for the 2027 general election to the southern region of the country, while earmarking the 2031 presidential slot for the north in what party leaders described as a strategic move to strengthen rotational leadership and national balance.
The decision was adopted on Saturday during the party’s national convention held in Abuja following a resolution presented by Afam Victor and seconded by Seyi Sowumi.
Party officials said the arrangement was part of the NDC’s long-term political framework aimed at promoting inclusiveness and easing regional tensions often associated with presidential contests in Nigeria’s multi-ethnic political landscape.
The convention also ratified all members of the party’s national executive committee after a motion moved by Victor Umeh, senator representing Anambra Central.
The development is expected to shape the internal calculations of key southern political figures eyeing the presidency ahead of 2027, while also positioning the NDC as one of the emerging platforms seeking to challenge the dominance of the country’s major parties.
Analysts say the zoning announcement could trigger fresh political realignments, especially among opposition blocs and politicians searching for alternative platforms before the next election cycle.
The move also comes amid increasing national debate over power rotation between the north and south, a principle many political stakeholders argue is necessary for stability, fairness and national cohesion.
Although the party has yet to unveil possible aspirants, the zoning declaration is likely to intensify consultations among southern politicians interested in contesting under the NDC platform.
The convention further underscored the party’s attempt to project internal unity and organisational stability ahead of what is expected to be a fiercely contested 2027 election season.
According to the resolution adopted at the gathering, “the 2027 presidential ticket is zoned to the south,” while “the 2031 slot goes to the north.”
The report was originally published by TheCable
