The Nigeria Democratic Congress has officially zoned its presidential ticket for the 2027 general election to Southern Nigeria, a decision widely viewed as strengthening the political chances of former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi.
The announcement was made on Saturday during the party’s national convention in Abuja, where key party stakeholders gathered to deliberate on major issues shaping the future of the party ahead of the next election cycle.
The development was also confirmed through the party’s official communication channels, with the NDC declaring that its presidential ticket had been ceded to the South.
Among prominent political figures present at the convention were Obi and former Kano State Governor, Rabiu Kwankwaso, both of whom recently joined the party amid growing political realignments ahead of 2027.
Documents made available to journalists at the convention indicated that delegates were expected to discuss several major issues, including zoning arrangements, ratification of amendments to the party constitution, and the election of new national executives.
The NDC has recently experienced a wave of defections from rival political parties, particularly the African Democratic Congress and the Peoples Democratic Party, as opposition figures continue to reposition themselves.
Earlier in the week, no fewer than 17 members of the House of Representatives formally defected from the ADC to the NDC during plenary proceedings at the National Assembly.
The lawmakers include Yusuf Datti, Uchenna Okonkwo, Adamu Wakili, Thaddeus Attah, George Ozodinobi, Lilian Orogbu, Oluwaseyi Sowunmi, Peter Aniekwe, Mukhtar Zakari, George Oluwande, Munachim Umezuruike, Emeka Idu, Jesse Onuakalusi, Ifeanyi Uzokwe, Afam Ogene, Murphy Omoruyi and Abdulhakeem Ado.
Their defection came shortly after Obi and Kwankwaso formally joined the NDC from the ADC. Both politicians reportedly received their membership cards following a closed-door meeting with party leaders.
The duo were welcomed into the party by former Bayelsa State Governor and NDC national leader, Seriake Dickson.
Obi had previously explained that his exit from the ADC was driven by persistent internal crises, alleged external interference and what he described as growing hostility within party structures. He had joined the ADC in December 2025 after leaving the Labour Party.
Political observers believe the latest zoning decision could significantly shape alliance talks and opposition strategies ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
