The Traffic

PDP Zoning Shakes 2027 Race: Saraki, Bala Out – Jonathan, Obi, Makinde Eyed

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has zoned its 2027 presidential ticket to the South, a decision that effectively ends the ambitions of former Senate President Bukola Saraki and Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed within the party.

The resolution was adopted at the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting in Abuja, following reports by the Convention Committee (Gov. Ahmadu Fintiri) and the Zoning Panel (Gov. Douye Diri). It will be ratified at the November 2025 National Convention in Ibadan.

Southern hopefuls gain ground

The zoning strengthens the hands of southern contenders, including:

Gov. Seyi Makinde (Oyo) – though yet to declare interest.

Peter Obi – being wooed to return after his strong 2023 showing.

Goodluck Jonathan – courted by party elders; seen as a one-term option attractive to the North.

Another aspirant, Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, rejected the zoning as unconstitutional, vowing to contest regardless. His supporters staged a rally at the PDP Secretariat.

Wike claims vindication

FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, leader of the G-5 governors, hailed the zoning as a correction of past errors. He argued the PDP lost in 2023 because it ignored his camp’s warning against fielding both a northern chairman and northern presidential candidate.

“Has PDP not come back to eat its own vomit?” Wike’s office asked, insisting the decision validates his earlier stance.

Party leaders call for unity

Acting Chairman Umar Damagum, now confirmed substantive chairman, urged reconciliation, sacrifice and inclusion.

BoT Chair Adolphus Wabara warned that reclaiming power in 2027 would be “demanding but possible if the party unites.”

NEC reaffirmed the 35% women’s representation policy and ordered micro-zoning of party offices within regions.

The big picture

With zoning settled, the PDP’s 2027 race shifts decisively to the South. While Saraki and Bala are out, the field is opening for Jonathan, Obi, Makinde and others. The party’s ability to reconcile internal divisions and attract cross-regional support will determine whether it can mount a serious challenge to the ruling APC.

By Haruna Yakubu Haruna