In a landmark decision aimed at repositioning the party ahead of the 2027 general elections, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has officially zoned its presidential ticket to the South and announced Ibadan, Oyo State, as the new venue for its Elective National Convention.
This development, confirmed during the party’s 101st National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting held Wednesday in Abuja, marks a significant shift from the 2023 election cycle when the ticket was thrown open. The move aligns with the recommendation of the PDP’s founding fathers and is seen as a strategic effort to rebuild trust with the party’s southern base.
The NEC meeting, chaired by Acting National Chairman Ambassador Iliya Damagum, also adopted November 15 and 16, 2025, as the new dates for the national convention, shifting it from its earlier proposed venue in Kano to Ibadan — a political stronghold of Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde.
Party insiders view the decision as a potential boost to Governor Makinde’s rumoured presidential ambition, further intensifying the ongoing rivalry between him and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike. Once close allies, Makinde and Wike are now on opposing sides of the PDP’s internal power struggle, with accusations of betrayal and sabotage flying between both camps.
Speaking after the NEC meeting, PDP National Publicity Secretary Debo Ologunagba said the zoning decision and change of venue were outcomes of extensive consultations aimed at promoting unity and balance.
“The NEC expressed satisfaction with the resolution of internal disputes and reaffirmed our tradition of dialogue and mutual understanding,” Ologunagba stated.
A NEC member who requested anonymity told Vanguard that the mood in the room reflected a strong desire for unity and strategic rebalancing. “Zoning the ticket to the South is meant to rebuild trust after the 2023 fallout,” the source said. “Choosing Ibadan helps consolidate support in a critical region.”
However, the decision has widened tensions between the Makinde and Wike factions. While Wike’s camp views the move as a calculated attempt to sideline his influence, Makinde’s supporters argue that Wike is undermining the party to favour the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Beyond internal politics, the NEC also resolved to initiate legal proceedings to reclaim seats held by lawmakers who defected from the PDP to other parties. Quoting Sections 68 (1)(g) and 109 (1)(g) of the 1999 Constitution, the party declared that such defectors had forfeited their mandates.
“The PDP is firm in its position: any member who defects loses their seat. The law is clear,” Ologunagba said, while urging disloyal members to return fully to the party.
To ensure a smooth convention process, the NEC approved the membership of the National Convention Planning Committee and the Convention Zoning Committee. The 102nd NEC meeting is scheduled for August 25, 2025.
Speaking at the meeting, Chairman of the PDP Board of Trustees (BoT), Senator Adolphus Wabara — represented by former Kaduna State Governor Senator Ahmed Makarfi — said many defectors would return if the party shows inspiring leadership.
“This meeting proves the PDP is alive and focused,” Makarfi said. “Our decisions today will shape the future.”
Echoing this sentiment, Damagum revealed that many former members who had aligned with opposition coalitions were already retracing their steps. “Some even claimed they never left. We welcome them back without prejudice,” he noted.
Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum, Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State, also assured that the party remains open to reconciliation but warned against indiscipline.
“We are working behind the scenes to ensure unity. Those who left out of impatience will come to see that the PDP remains Nigeria’s most credible political platform,” he said.
As preparations intensify for the 2027 elections, the PDP’s internal recalibration — from zoning strategies to leadership restructuring — appears aimed at consolidating its strength and restoring its relevance as a formidable opposition force.
Comments