Nigeria 2027: PDP Zones Presidency to South as APC Prepares for Tinubu's Re-election Bid
As Nigeria moves closer to the 2027 general elections, the political landscape is buzzing with intense activities, strategizing, and realignments by the major political parties, particularly the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the main opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). The unwritten but influential principle of zoning, or rotational presidency, is once again at the forefront of these discussions.
Here's a detailed look at the prominent maneuvering:
Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Southern Presidency Zoning:
Official Zoning to the South: In a significant development, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has reportedly officially zoned its 2027 presidential ticket to the South. This decision was announced on Friday, July 25, 2025, following a crucial meeting of the party's 101st National Executive Committee (NEC) in Abuja. This move aligns with the consensus reached by the party's founding fathers and other stakeholders.
Deviation from 2023 Strategy: This is a clear departure from the PDP's 2023 strategy, where it threw its presidential ticket open. That approach led to internal divisions and criticisms, particularly from southern factions who felt it was their turn.
Strategic Intent: The zoning to the South is viewed as a strategic effort to:
Boost Southern Unity: Address grievances from the South and foster unity within the party, particularly after a significant number of defections.
Align with Power Rotation: Adhere to the informal principle of power rotation between the North and South, aiming for fairness and equity in national leadership.
Counter APC: Present a strong southern candidate to challenge the incumbent, President Bola Tinubu, who is also from the South.
Potential Beneficiaries: This decision has immediately ignited speculation about potential presidential aspirants from the South within the PDP. While not explicitly named, figures like Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde are seen as potential beneficiaries, possibly at the disadvantage of others like FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, who have been embroiled in internal party disputes.
National Convention: The PDP also announced that its Elective National Convention would now take place in Ibadan, Oyo State, instead of Kano, a decision that could further impact internal dynamics.
All Progressives Congress (APC) and its 2027 Agenda:
Tinubu's Expected Candidacy: The ruling APC appears to be setting the stage for President Bola Tinubu to seek re-election in 2027. Allies within the party have already declared him as the party's sole presidential candidate for the next elections.
Consolidating Power: The APC is actively working to consolidate its structures and strengthen its hold on power. Recent defections from opposition parties into the APC are being highlighted as a sign of the ruling party's growing dominance.
Economic Reforms and Spending: The Tinubu administration is implementing significant economic reforms and planning a substantial state-sponsored spending boost, financed by foreign loans, on infrastructure, health, and agriculture projects. This is explicitly aimed at improving the "livelihoods of the average Nigerian" and is seen as a strategic move to garner public support ahead of the elections.
Internal Dynamics: While outwardly projecting unity, the APC also faces internal complexities and potential wrangling, particularly concerning regional and religious representation in leadership. The recent appointment of Professor Nentawe Yilwatda as the new National Chairman (a Christian from the North-Central) is seen as a strategic balancing act by the party to address some of these concerns and consolidate internal cohesion.
South-South Endorsement: APC leaders from the South-South region have already thrown their full support behind President Bola Tinubu, endorsing him for a second term.
Broader Political Landscape and Opposition Alliances:
Opposition Realignment and Potential Disarray: Beyond the PDP's zoning, the broader opposition landscape is undergoing significant realignment, though it is also marked by leadership uncertainty and factional disputes. Some reports indicate former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has left the PDP and joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC) with allies.
Coalition Talks: However, there are significant efforts underway to form a powerful new opposition coalition. Prominent figures like former Vice President Atiku Abubakar (now reportedly with ADC) and Labour Party's Peter Obi are reportedly engaged in high-level talks with northern political leaders, signaling a strategic move to unseat President Tinubu.
Peter Obi's Declaration: Peter Obi, the Labour Party's 2023 presidential candidate, has officially announced his intention to run again in 2027, promising to serve just one term if elected. He has expressed openness to forming "issue-based coalitions."
Challenges for Coalitions: While promising, such coalitions face significant challenges in consolidating support, selecting candidates, and navigating the intricate electoral process, often leading to internal divisions.
The maneuvering for 2027 underscores the persistent influence of ethno-religious balancing and regional considerations in Nigerian politics. Both major parties are keen to present a strong, unified front, but internal dynamics and external alliances will significantly shape the path to the next general elections.
I'm Aisha shehu
Talksocialtalka News
