The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has urged the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to zone its 2027 presidential ticket to the southern region, emphasizing principles of fairness and federal character.
Speaking after a high-level caucus meeting of Concerned PDP Stakeholders, Wike reiterated the need for inclusivity within the party’s leadership structure. The meeting, held in Abuja on Monday, was attended by former governors Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi (Enugu), Samuel Ortom (Benue), and Okezie Ikpeazu (Abia), alongside other key party figures.
“In the spirit of fairness, inclusion, federal character principles, and respect for our party constitution, the PDP must make an unequivocal pronouncement zoning its presidential candidate to the South in the 2027 elections,” Wike stated.
The minister argued that the move would correct the imbalance created by the unbroken years of Northern leadership under former President Muhammadu Buhari. He also reaffirmed Senator Sam Anyanwu as the party’s National Secretary, dismissing any notices or correspondences not issued by him as invalid.
The meeting comes amid ongoing internal debates over the party’s leadership and zoning arrangements, with some stakeholders advocating for Northern continuity while others push for power rotation. Wike’s stance is expected to further shape discussions as the PDP prepares for the 2027 elections.