The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has officially reserved its presidential ticket for Southern Nigeria ahead of the 2027 general election, with the candidate expected to serve a single four-year tenure. The decision was reached during the maiden National Convention of the party, where delegates overwhelmingly adopted a motion presented by Afam Victor Ogene, a member of the House of Representatives representing Ogbaru Federal Constituency in Anambra State.
As part of the resolution, the party agreed that after the completion of the four-year term by a southern candidate, the presidency would automatically rotate to the North. The arrangement is widely seen as strengthening the chances of former Anambra State governor, Peter Obi, and other aspirants from the South who may seek the party's presidential ticket.
Obi and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso had earlier moved to the NDC on Sunday. Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate and former Governor of Anambra State, left the ADC after complaining about endless court cases, suspicion, division within the party and alleged external interference. Kwankwaso is a former Governor of Kano State, former Minister of Defence and 2023 presidential candidate of the New Nigeria People's Party (NNPP).
This zoning decision by the NDC is expected to shape the political landscape ahead of the 2027 elections, as it provides a clear path for southern candidates while ensuring a future rotation to the north. The party's move also consolidates its position as a major political force, attracting high-profile defectors like Obi and Kwankwaso.
