Former Kano State Governor, Rabiu Kwankwaso, has officially thrown his support behind the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC)’s decision to zone its 2027 presidential ticket to Southern Nigeria, describing the move as consistent with the party’s power-sharing arrangement and principle of equity.
Kwankwaso made the declaration while addressing party leaders, delegates, and supporters at the NDC National Convention held in Abuja.
“I support the decision to zone the presidential ticket to the South so that the region can complete its eight years. This is in line with the zoning process and party agreement,” Kwankwaso said.
He also urged Nigerians to embrace the party’s mobilisation drive ahead of the next election cycle, appealing: “Please register now.”
The endorsement follows hours after the NDC formally adopted a resolution zoning its 2027 presidential ticket to Southern Nigeria for a single four-year term, a decision expected to reshape opposition politics ahead of the general elections.
The resolution, moved by Afam Victor Ogene, member representing Ogbaru Constituency in Anambra State, was adopted during the convention in Abuja.
Announcing the decision, NDC National Chairman Moses Cleopas described it as part of a broader power-sharing formula aimed at balancing regional interests within the party.
Cleopas confirmed that following the South’s four-year tenure, the presidential ticket would revert to the North in 2031, reinforcing the party’s commitment to equitable leadership rotation.
The NDC National Executive Committee also ratified the election of members of the National Working Committee, clearing the path for former Anambra Governor Peter Obi and other southern aspirants to purchase and process the party’s presidential nomination forms.
The zoning arrangement comes amid intensifying political realignments as opposition leaders seek to forge a united platform capable of challenging President Bola Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Meanwhile, Obi and Kwankwaso have formally joined the NDC, calling on party members to eschew internal disputes and focus on national development.
During their reception into the party in Abuja, Obi emphasized that their decision to join the NDC was motivated by a desire for a peaceful, crisis-free political platform.
By Georgina Humphrey
