NDC Zones 2027 Presidential Ticket to South at National Convention, Clears Path for Peter Obi

The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has formally zoned its 2027 presidential ticket to the South, a decision that effectively positions former Anambra State governor Peter Obi as the party’s leading contender for the presidency.

The resolution was passed at the party’s national convention held in Abuja on Saturday, May 9, 2026. Delegates also voted to restrict the NDC presidency to a single, non-renewable four-year term — a condition that aligns directly with Obi’s own publicly stated position on tenure.

Convention Proceedings

The motion to zone the presidential ticket to the South was moved by Afam Victor Ogene, the member representing Ogbaru Constituency of Anambra State in the 10th National Assembly, and seconded by Seyi Sowunmi, another party member. It was adopted unanimously by delegates.

NDC national chairman Senator Cleopas Moses Zuwoghe addressed delegates at the convention, reaffirming the party’s commitment to democracy, constitutional governance, and national development. “The NDC was founded on principles aimed at promoting equal opportunity and national progress,” Zuwoghe said. He described the gathering as “an important platform for dialogue, the exchange of ideas, and collective engagement.”

According to the resolution, after the single four-year term, the presidential ticket will be automatically zoned to the North for the next election cycle.

Peter Obi’s Path Clears Further

Obi, who was the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, has been widely seen as NDC’s frontrunner since defecting to the party. He had previously pledged to serve only one term if elected president — a stance that now fits neatly into the party’s formal constitutional framework.

Former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso is widely reported to be his preferred running mate, though no formal announcement has been made.

Party sources said the convention was intended to showcase the NDC’s strength and formalise political realignments ahead of the 2027 elections. The party has witnessed a wave of defections in recent weeks, with several senators and House of Representatives members crossing from the All Democratic Congress and other parties into NDC ranks.

Tension at the Venue

The convention was not without drama. There was commotion at the venue in Abuja when a large crowd tried to force their way into the building, which many attendees described as too small for the scale of the gathering. Security operatives had to intervene to restore order before proceedings could continue.

The Presidency swiftly responded to the NDC convention, with a statement taunting the party, saying “No document found” in reference to reports that NDC has no published manifesto. The jab underscored the growing political rivalry as 2027 approaches.

Sources: Daily Trust, This Day Live, The Nation, Punch, News Point Nigeria