The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has officially zoned its 2027 presidential ticket to Southern Nigeria, following a resolution reached at its 102nd National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting on Monday.
In a communiqué presented by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, the NEC explained that since the office of National Chairman remains in the North, the presidential candidate must come from the South.
The communiqué stated:
- All PDP national offices currently held in the North will remain in the North.
- All offices in the South will remain in the South.
- The 2027 presidential ticket is zoned to the Southern region.
The NEC also directed both regions to immediately begin micro-zoning of positions for implementation.
Damagum Confirmed as National Chairman
The meeting ratified Ambassador Iliya Umar Damagum as the substantive National Chairman of the party. He had been serving in acting capacity. His tenure will run until the PDP’s Elective National Convention scheduled for November 15–16, 2025, in Ibadan, Oyo State.
The NEC praised Damagum’s leadership for stabilising the party during a turbulent period and expressed satisfaction with preparations for the forthcoming convention, acknowledging the roles of PDP governors, the Board of Trustees, and the National Assembly Caucus.
Criticism of APC
On national issues, the PDP accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of undermining democracy and “drifting towards authoritarianism.” It condemned the conduct of recent bye-elections, citing intimidation, militarisation, and excessive deployment of security agencies in states like Kaduna, Taraba, and Zamfara.
The communiqué warned that APC’s alleged actions amounted to attempts to impose a one-party state, describing it as a “clear and present danger” to Nigeria’s democracy.
Reassurance to Nigerians
The PDP NEC reaffirmed its commitment to democratic principles and vowed to reposition the party ahead of the 2027 elections.
“NEC reassures Nigerians of PDP’s commitment to democracy and the wellbeing of all citizens as we work hard to regain power in 2027,” the statement read.
