Peter Obi’s Chances Rise as NDC Zones Presidential Ticket to South

The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has zoned its 2027 presidential ticket to Southern Nigeria, a decision widely viewed as a major boost for former Anambra State governor Peter Obi.

The announcement was made on Saturday during the party’s national convention held in Abuja and was later confirmed through a statement shared on the party’s official X handle.

Convention Draws Top Political Figures

Several high-profile politicians attended the convention, including Peter Obi and former Kano State governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.

Discussions at the gathering reportedly centred on zoning arrangements, constitutional amendments, and the election of national executives ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The zoning decision is expected to shape the party’s presidential race and strengthen Obi’s position within the NDC following his recent defection.

Wave of Defections Strengthens NDC

The NDC has recently recorded a series of defections from opposition parties, especially the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

On Tuesday, 17 members of the House of Representatives dumped the ADC for the NDC during plenary, further increasing the party’s political momentum ahead of 2027.

The defections followed the official entry of Peter Obi and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso into the party after leaving the ADC.

Obi, Kwankwaso Welcomed Into Party

The two politicians reportedly received their membership cards after a closed-door meeting with party leaders.

Former Bayelsa State governor and NDC national leader, Seriake Dickson, officially welcomed them into the party.

Reports indicated that Obi left the ADC following growing internal crises and what he described as increasing hostility within the party structure.

The latest zoning arrangement is now expected to intensify political calculations ahead of the 2027 presidential election as opposition parties continue realignments across the country.