The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) risks deepening internal divisions ahead of the 2027 general elections following its decision to zone the presidential ticket to the South.
On Monday, the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) voted in favour of southern candidacy, describing the move as a demonstration of its commitment to equity, inclusiveness, and democratic values. The leadership also reaffirmed its resolve to reclaim power after nearly a decade in opposition.
However, former presidential candidate and PDP chieftain, Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, has strongly criticised the decision, warning that it could alienate northern members and play into President Bola Tinubu’s re-election strategy.
Appearing on a popular Television programme (Channels)Today, Olawepo-Hashim described the move as “a big error” with damaging implications. “What the decision means is that if you are a northerner, you should find another party,” he stated. He argued that past PDP leaders avoided shutting out any region to safeguard unity.
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He further cautioned that the zoning directive could spark legal challenges, as the Nigerian constitution bars political exclusion on the basis of ethnicity or region. “If tested in court, the party’s candidate risks disqualification,” he added.
The PDP has long grappled with zoning controversies. In 2022, its refusal to rotate the ticket south generated discontent that weakened its 2023 presidential campaign. Analysts fear the latest decision could reopen those fault lines.
Olawepo-Hashim urged the party to reconsider, insisting: “It was democratic, but it was wrong. The PDP must keep its doors open if it truly wants to unite Nigerians and return to power.”
