KEY POINTS

• PDP 2027 presidential ticket fuels Jonathan, Obi, Makinde speculation.

• Zoning to the South aims to restore balance and inclusion.

• Internal dissent raises questions about PDP’s survival gamble.

The race for the Peoples Democratic Party’s 2027 presidential ticket has sharpened after the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) formally zoned the slot to the South, closing months of speculation about its direction.

At its 102nd meeting in Abuja, the NEC also confirmed Umar Damagum as substantive national chairman. National Publicity Secretary Debo Ologunagba described the zoning decision as a corrective step to restore fairness, while another member said it reflected equity and balance, adding that the PDP wanted to avoid a repeat of 2023 when the party fractured after ignoring zoning.

Already, three names dominate the conversation: former President Goodluck Jonathan, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, and former Anambra Governor Peter Obi.

PDP 2027 presidential ticket revives Jonathan speculation

Jonathan’s possible return has triggered heavy debate. The former president, who left office in 2015 after losing to Muhammadu Buhari, retains broad appeal across political divides and is viewed by many as a unifying figure. His major challenge lies in Section 137(3) of the Constitution, which bars anyone sworn into office twice from seeking the presidency again.

Makinde, at 57, is seen as part of a younger generation of PDP leadership. Posters bearing his image have surfaced in several states, though his confidants insist he has not declared. “He is eminently qualified, a man of integrity, and if he chooses to contest, he will make it known himself,” one ally said.

Obi, whose 2023 Labour Party run electrified youth and redrew Nigeria’s electoral map, has kept close ties with PDP figures, fueling talk of a possible return. Zoning the ticket southward effectively clears the way if he seeks the nomination again.

Southern contenders weigh PDP’s zoning gamble

According to Business Day, Bayelsa Governor Seriake Dickson has dismissed speculation linking him to the race, saying his focus remains on the Senate. Yet his denial highlights the ripple effect Jonathan’s possible entry has caused in the South-South. Another emerging name is Enugu Governor Peter Mbah, promoted by allies as a reformist and dubbed the “Talk and Do” governor, though he has not declared.

Supporters argue that zoning restores PDP’s founding ethos of balance and inclusion. But dissenters remain. Former presidential aspirant Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim called the decision unconstitutional, describing it as an elite conspiracy that mocks internal democracy.

As 2027 approaches, the PDP’s gamble on zoning southward will test whether it can unify its base or deepen divisions. Whether the flagbearer turns out to be Jonathan, Makinde, Obi, or another aspirant, the choice will define the opposition party’s future and its chances at the polls.