Calls for zoning ahead of the 2027 election have reignited tensions within the PDP as leaders clash over rotation, reconciliation and party direction
The PDP zoning debate 2027 election is rapidly becoming a defining issue within Nigeria’s main opposition party, as its leaders prepare for a crucial convention and the next presidential poll.
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Tensions are already simmering as senior members of the Peoples Democratic Party’s National Executive Committee express differing views over whether to maintain zoning as enshrined in the party’s constitution or let popular choice prevail.
This internal friction follows a strong recommendation by Olabode George, a respected party chieftain, who argued that the PDP must honour its zoning principle and present a presidential candidate from the south.
He believes zoning remains critical for maintaining Nigeria’s delicate balance among its ethnic nationalities.
George said the PDP’s founding vision included rotating key positions to prevent regional dominance.
He warned that ignoring this principle could deepen national divisions and cost the party dearly in 2027.
Diran Odeyemi, a former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the party, aligned with George’s view.
He stressed that zoning would offer strategic direction, especially ahead of the party’s convention expected later in the year.
Odeyemi argued that should the national chairmanship remain in the north, the presidency ought to rotate southward.
In his view, however, zoning alone would not suffice. He urged the party to reconcile with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, whose relationship with the party has grown strained.
“Wike needs the party as much as the party needs him,” Odeyemi noted, adding that genuine reconciliation could help unify the party and enhance its chances in the next general election.
However, not all within the PDP leadership share this stance. Timothy Osadolor, the party’s Deputy National Youth Leader, dismissed the idea of zoning as potentially outdated.
He insisted that democracy must reflect the will of the people rather than be restricted by regional considerations.
According to Osadolor, merit should drive the choice of a presidential candidate. He cautioned against framing Nigeria’s leadership solely in ethnic terms, referencing concerns over the lopsided appointments under previous administrations.
“Democracy must be about the people, and must be allowed to win,” he said, adding that the party should focus on capability rather than origin.
The question of zoning is expected to dominate discussions at the PDP’s planned 100th National Executive Committee meeting in Abuja on June 30.
As the party positions itself for 2027, its leaders must resolve whether to uphold the zoning formula or embrace open competition, a decision that could reshape its identity and strategy moving forward.
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With the nation watching closely, how the PDP handles the zoning debate may determine whether it emerges stronger or further fractured ahead of the next presidential election.
