2027: NDC clears path for Obi, zones presidential ticket to South

The Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) has zoned its 2027 presidential ticket to Southern Nigeria for a single four-year term, a move widely seen as strengthening the prospects of former Anambra State governor, Peter Obi.

The resolution was adopted at the party’s maiden national convention following a motion moved by Afam Victor Ogene, member representing Ogbaru Federal Constituency of Anambra State in the House of Representatives.

The development came amid recent political realignments involving Obi, former presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), and Rabiu Kwankwaso, former presidential candidate of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), who are both now in the NDC after leaving the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

BusinessDay reports that Obi, while in the ADC, pledged to serve only a single four-year term if elected president in 2027.

The arrangement is believed to align with Nigeria’s informal power-sharing understanding between the North and the South.

By 2027, the South would have completed four years in office under President Bola Tinubu. If Tinubu secures re-election, or another southerner wins the presidency, the region would complete eight uninterrupted years in power by 2031 before the office rotates back to the North.

Delegates at the convention further resolved that after the expiration of the proposed single term, the party’s presidential ticket would automatically return to Northern Nigeria.

Political observers say the decision significantly boosts Obi’s chances within the party for the 2027 race.

There are also growing speculations that Kwankwaso could emerge as Obi’s running mate if the former Labour Party candidate secures the NDC ticket.

Sources within the coalition said the emerging arrangement was facilitated by former president Olusegun Obasanjo.