In a recent interview from 11:05 on Arise TV on Monday, July 20, 2026, APC stalwart and former Director-General of the Voice of Nigeria, Osita Okechukwu, weighed in on the growing debate over zoning and power rotation ahead of the 2027 presidential election. He argued that preserving the unwritten convention of rotating power between the North and the South remains important for Nigeria’s unity and democratic stability.
During the discussion, Okechukwu stated, “They know Northern patriots are saying, ‘Please, it’s the South’s turn.'” He claimed that many influential voices in the North believe the South should be allowed to complete its expected tenure before the presidency returns to the region.
According to Okechukwu, many northern leaders have consistently demonstrated a commitment to fairness by supporting the principle of power rotation despite having qualified candidates capable of contesting the presidency. He argued that respecting the arrangement would strengthen national cohesion and reduce unnecessary political tension.
The former Voice of Nigeria boss also maintained that attempts to rally support against the zoning principle could create avoidable divisions across the country. He expressed concern that introducing ethnic considerations into the campaign could undermine the spirit of national unity that many political leaders have worked to preserve over the years.
Okechukwu further recalled that northern APC governors publicly backed the transfer of power to the South before the 2023 election, describing the decision as one made in the broader interest of the country rather than regional politics. He insisted that similar thinking should guide political actors as preparations for the next general election intensify.
While acknowledging that the Nigerian Constitution allows every qualified citizen to seek elective office, Okechukwu argued that political conventions often play a vital role in maintaining trust among the country’s diverse regions. He urged leaders to place national interest above personal ambition, saying such decisions would strengthen democracy and promote long-term political stability.
The interview concluded with the programme’s host noting that Atiku Abubakar and his supporters remain entitled to respond to the claims as discussions surrounding zoning continue ahead of the 2027 election….See More