Party’s decision at Abuja convention fuels fresh political momentum as Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso formally join NDC.
By John Ishaku – ABUJA — May 10, 2026
The Nigeria Democratic Congress has officially zoned its 2027 presidential ticket to Southern Nigeria, a major political development widely seen as strengthening the chances of former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi, emerging as the party’s presidential candidate.
The announcement was made on Saturday during the party’s national convention in Abuja amid growing political realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Party Confirms Southern Zoning
The party confirmed the decision in a statement shared on its official X platform, declaring: “NDC Presidential ticket is zoned to the South!!”
The convention attracted several prominent political figures, including Obi and former Kano State Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.
According to the convention agenda made available to journalists, discussions focused on zoning arrangements, ratification of amendments to the party constitution and the election of new national executives.
Obi’s Political Prospects Receive Major Boost
Political observers believe the zoning arrangement significantly improves Peter Obi’s chances of securing the party’s presidential ticket, especially following his recent defection to the NDC.
Obi, who was the presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 election, officially joined the NDC after exiting the African Democratic Congress.
The former governor had cited internal crises, external interference and growing hostility within party structures as reasons for leaving the ADC.
Kwankwaso Also Joins NDC
Kwankwaso, former presidential candidate of the New Nigeria People’s Party, also formally joined the NDC alongside Obi after a closed-door meeting with party leaders.
The duo reportedly received their membership cards from former Bayelsa State Governor and NDC national leader, Seriake Dickson.
Their arrival is viewed as a major political gain for the party as it positions itself for the next electoral cycle.
Defections Hit Opposition Parties
The NDC has recently witnessed a wave of defections from rival political parties, particularly the ADC and the Peoples Democratic Party.
During plenary on Tuesday, 17 members of the House of Representatives reportedly defected from the ADC to the NDC.
The lawmakers include Yusuf Datti, Uchenna Okonkwo, Adamu Wakili, Thaddeus Attah, George Ozodinobi, Lilian Orogbu, Oluwaseyi Sowunmi, Peter Aniekwe, Mukhtar Zakari, George Oluwande and Munachim Umezuruike.
Others are Emeka Idu, Jesse Onuakalusi, Ifeanyi Uzokwe, Afam Ogene, Murphy Omoruyi and Abdulhakeem Ado.
Rising Political Realignments Ahead of 2027
The growing movement into the NDC reflects increasing political calculations ahead of the 2027 elections, with parties repositioning amid shifting alliances and leadership struggles across the political landscape.
Analysts say the zoning of the presidential ticket to the South could reshape opposition dynamics and intensify competition among major political blocs.
With Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso now firmly within its ranks and the presidential ticket officially zoned to the South, the Nigeria Democratic Congress appears set to emerge as a significant force in the build-up to the 2027 presidential election.
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