The Traffic

“We Need Open Contest, Not Zoning” – Vanguard Group Challenges PDP on 2027 Presidency

The Northwest Coordinator of the Gbenga Hashim Vanguard, Aminu Wudilawa, has faulted the decision of the National Executive Committee (NEC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to zone its 2027 presidential ticket to the South, describing the move as unconstitutional and unfair.

Speaking to journalists in Kano, Wudilawa argued that zoning had no legal standing under Nigeria’s laws, insisting that every eligible citizen must be free to contest for the presidency without restriction.

According to him, Section 84(3) of the Electoral Act, 2022, makes it clear that no political party can impose additional conditions on aspirants beyond what is provided in the 1999 Constitution.

“Zoning has no legal basis; it is merely a gentleman’s agreement,” he said. “The Constitution guarantees every qualified Nigerian the right to aspire to any office, and PDP cannot take that right away.”

Wudilawa also reminded the party of historical precedents. He noted that in 1999, even though the PDP zoned its presidential ticket to the South, former President Olusegun Obasanjo still faced stiff competition at the primaries. Similarly, in 2003, Obasanjo was challenged by northern politicians, including the late Abubakar Rimi and Barnabas Gemade, despite zoning arrangements.

He further referenced remarks by the PDP Acting National Chairman, Amb. Umar Iliya Damagum, who told the BBC Hausa Service that zoning would not prevent northerners from contesting.

Calling for inclusivity, Wudilawa urged politicians from the North not to be discouraged by the NEC resolution.

“We call on interested northerners not to be discouraged. The contest should be open. PDP belongs to all Nigerians, not to one section,” he stressed.

Wudilawa insisted that for the PDP to regain credibility ahead of 2027, it must ensure a level playing field for all aspirants regardless of region.

By Haruna Yakubu Haruna