2027: Kwankwaso backs zoning of Presidential ticket to South

By Ismail Azeez

Former Governor of Kano State and chieftain of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has declared his support for the zoning of the party’s presidential ticket to the South ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Kwankwaso made the declaration on Friday while delivering a speech at the NDC National Convention held in Abuja, describing the move as a vital step toward national healing, fairness, and unity.

Addressing the delegates, Kwankwaso stated that it was with a great sense of unity and solidarity that he, as a loyal party member, supported the decision to zone the presidential ticket to the South.

He noted that such a move allows the region to complete its turn in producing national leadership, ensuring that the party adheres to the principles of fairness and federal character.

Kwankwaso warned that Nigeria stands at a critical crossroads, noting that while the world undergoes a profound geopolitical shift, the nation remains unprepared due to poor leadership.

He argued that instead of positioning Nigeria to seize emerging opportunities, bad governance has left the country bearing the brunt of global changes, resulting in a sharp decline in the quality of life and rising insecurity that has displaced millions.

Drawing on historical precedents, the former governor reminded the audience that visionary alliances have often provided a way forward during Nigeria’s most challenging moments.

He cited the 1954 partnership between Aminu Kano’s NEPU and Nnamdi Azikiwe’s NCNC, the 1960 coalition that birthed independence, and the Second Republic alliance between Shehu Shagari and Alex Ekwueme as examples of how regional cooperation can restore civilian rule and national stability.

Concluding his address, Kwankwaso emphasized that the leadership standard set by the NDC would restore Nigeria’s dignity and ensure that citizens, both at home and in the diaspora, are treated with respect.

He urged Nigerians to continue mobilizing by registering with INEC to vote and joining the NDC to support what he described as a noble cause for national transformation.