Kwankwaso backs zoning of NDC presidential ticket to South

Former Kano State governor, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso has backed the decision of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) to zone its 2027 presidential ticket to the southern region.

Speaking at the party’s national convention in Abuja on Saturday, Kwankwaso described the zoning arrangement as a pathway to national unity and healing, pledging to uphold the party’s commitment to fairness and federal character.

The NDC, during the convention, resolved to zone its 2027 presidential ticket to the South and reserve the 2031 ticket for the North. The motion was moved by Afam Victor and seconded by Seyi Sowumi.

Kwankwaso said the decision would give the South an opportunity to complete its turn in producing Nigeria’s leadership.

“It is with a strong sense of unity and solidarity that I support the zoning of the NDC presidential ticket to the South, allowing the region to complete its turn in national leadership,” he said.

He added that the party would work in line with agreements aimed at promoting fairness and inclusiveness.

The former governor also said Nigeria is currently facing serious governance challenges, citing insecurity, economic hardship, poor infrastructure, and declining public services as key concerns affecting citizens’ welfare.

According to him, worsening insecurity has displaced many Nigerians and deepened hardship, while investments continue to decline due to poor governance and economic pressures.

Kwankwaso further reflected on Nigeria’s political history, referencing alliances such as the partnership between Aminu Kano’s Northern Elements Progressive Union (NEPU) and Nnamdi Azikiwe’s National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons (NCNC) in 1954, as well as later coalitions that contributed to national stability.

He also cited the partnership between Shehu Shagari and Alex Ekwueme during the Second Republic as an example of political cooperation that strengthened national cohesion.

Kwankwaso said the NDC aims to promote leadership free from ethnic and religious bias while encouraging Nigerians to register to vote and participate actively in the democratic process.