A growing number of stakeholders within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) are calling on the party to micro-zone its 2027 presidential ticket to the South-East, citing the principles of justice, fairness, and political inclusion.
The call is being led by Ralph Uwazurike, a chieftain of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, who argued that the South-East remains the only southern region yet to produce a president since Nigeria’s return to democracy in 1999.
“If the PDP truly understands the national mood, the presidential ticket should be left for the South-East,” Uwazurike said.
However, he expressed concern that influential figures like FCT Minister Nyesom Wike might block such a move due to political interests.
Uwazurike also suggested that the PDP should consider reaching out to former Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, to return and strengthen the party ahead of 2027.
In contrast, Chief Bode George, a former PDP Deputy National Chairman, dismissed the idea, stating that micro-zoning has no constitutional backing within the party.
“PDP must focus on fielding its strongest candidate from the South, not based on sentiment, but strategy. Micro-zoning doesn’t exist in our constitution,” George said.
He also rejected the idea of the PDP lobbying Peter Obi, noting, “Obi left the PDP on his own accord. If he wants to return, fine but the party won’t beg anyone.”
Kosolowoe Ajisafe, PDP National Vice Chairman (South-West), urged for patience and unity, especially from South-East members, as the party works through its rebuilding process.
The Gbenga Hashim Solidarity Movement (GHSM), however, criticised the NEC’s decision to zone the ticket to the South, calling it a “strategic and constitutional blunder” and pledged continued support for Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim as a potential candidate.
