According to Sahara, it was recently reported that Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, has sparked controversy by stating that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) should not award its 2027 presidential ticket to Northern Nigeria. Wike expressed his views during a media chat, emphasizing that such a decision would undermine the party’s relevance in future electoral contests.
While speaking further, the former Rivers State governor also said, “If Mr President wins the 2027 election, by 2031 APC will send the presidential ticket to the North.”
“In that case, what do you think PDP will do? They will also follow APC steps and send their own ticket to the northern region as well.” “But one thing is certain: PDP cannot give the presidential ticket to the North in 2027.” He added
According to Wike, if the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) retains power in 2027 and subsequently zones its presidential ticket to the North in 2031, the PDP would be left with little choice but to follow suit. This, he argued, would create a pattern of predictability and weaken the PDP’s strategic positioning.
Wike’s comments appear to be aimed at Atiku Abubakar, the PDP’s 2023 presidential candidate, and are seen as a challenge to the former Vice President’s ambitions. Wike also condemned internal selfishness within the party, warning that it could have detrimental effects on the party’s overall health and effectiveness.
In a previous statement, Wike criticized PDP governors for attempting to direct the party’s affairs, describing them as insincere and lacking the authority to make public decisions. He emphasized that the Governors’ Forum is merely a pressure group and not an organ of the party.
Wike’s stance on the zoning of the presidential ticket has reignited debates about the PDP’s internal dynamics and its strategy for reclaiming power. As the party navigates its internal challenges and prepares for future elections, Wike’s views are likely to influence the party’s decision-making process. The PDP’s ability to balance its internal interests and present a united front will be crucial in determining its prospects for success in the 2027 elections.
