By Ghazali Ibrahim
The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has reportedly zoned its 2027 presidential ticket to Southern Nigeria, in a move seen as a strategic step to consolidate its growing opposition base ahead of the general elections.
The decision was disclosed by party chieftain Buba Galadima, who said the zoning arrangement was adopted shortly after the defection of Peter Obi and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso to the party.
According to reports, the move is aimed at aligning with Nigeria’s long-standing political practice of rotating power between the North and South, while also strengthening the party’s appeal across regions.
Obi, a former governor of Anambra State, and Kwankwaso, a former governor of Kano State, recently joined the NDC amid internal crises and legal uncertainties within the African Democratic Congress (ADC), their former political platform.
Political observers say the zoning decision could give Obi, widely seen as a leading southern contender, a significant advantage within the party as preparations for the 2027 presidential race gather momentum.
The development underscores the rapid evolution of the NDC as a new rallying platform for opposition figures seeking to build a united front against the ruling party.
