Former Kano State governor and prominent northern political figure Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso has backed the decision of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) to zone its 2027 presidential ticket to southern Nigeria, describing the move as a necessary step toward restoring national balance and rebuilding trust across the country’s regional divides.
Kwankwaso’s endorsement is being viewed as a major political boost for the party’s zoning strategy ahead of the 2027 general elections. As one of northern Nigeria’s most influential political figures with a strong grassroots following across the North-West and beyond, his support is expected to strengthen the credibility of the NDC’s power rotation arrangement.
Nigeria’s informal power-sharing structure between the North and South has for decades shaped presidential succession within major political parties, despite not being formally enshrined in the constitution.
The issue became more sensitive following the completion of former President Muhammadu Buhari’s eight-year tenure in 2023, which paved the way for the emergence of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu from southern Nigeria.
Against that backdrop, the NDC recently announced that its presidential ticket for the 2027 election would be reserved for aspirants from the South.
The party also proposed a single four-year tenure arrangement, after which power would rotate back to northern Nigeria in 2031.
Supporters of the zoning formula argue that the arrangement could help reduce regional distrust and strengthen national unity by ensuring all parts of the country feel represented in the leadership structure.
Speaking on the development, Kwankwaso said:
“It is therefore with great sense of unity and solidarity, that as a loyal party member, I support the decision to zone the presidential ticket of the NDC to the South, so that it allows the region to complete its turn in producing national leadership.”
He further described the arrangement as “a true opportunity for national healing,” while reaffirming his commitment to fairness, equity, and the principles of federal character within the party system.
Political observers believe the development could reshape early alignments ahead of the 2027 presidential contest, especially amid growing conversations around coalition-building, opposition realignment, and regional inclusion in Nigeria’s evolving political landscape.
