“We’ll Shock Nigerians” — Wike Declares as PDP Zones 2027 Presidency to South

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has disclosed that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has resolved to zone its 2027 presidential ticket to the Southern region.

The decision, he said, is part of a broader arrangement to balance power within the party ahead of the next general elections.

Wike spoke on Friday night in Abuja while addressing journalists after inspecting the Moshood Abiola National Stadium Velodrome.

The facility is set to host the party’s national convention scheduled for March 29 and 30. His remarks signal a major political direction as the PDP begins early preparations for the 2027 race.

He explained that the party has already shared key positions across the country to reflect fairness and inclusiveness.

According to him, the presidency has been zoned to the South, while the position of national chairman has been allocated to the North.

“We have already zoned our positions. Every zone has its own slots. The presidency has been zoned to the South, while the chairmanship is zoned to the North. We believe this consensus arrangement will make the process easier.”

Wike stressed that the party is adopting a different approach this time. He noted that, unlike previous conventions where internal disagreements often produced a controversial “unity list,” the PDP is now presenting what he described as a common front.

“For the first time, the PDP is presenting a unified front, rather than the usual ‘unity list’ that often reflects internal divisions. There are no factions; everyone has agreed on the direction we are taking.”

Speaking on the level of preparedness, the minister said arrangements for the convention are almost complete. He added that only minor finishing touches remain before the event begins.

“We are fully prepared. This visit is to assess final arrangements. As I said, we are about 95 percent ready, and by tomorrow, everything will be set.”

He also gave insight into logistics already put in place. Seating plans for delegates from all states have been concluded, while the VIP section has been properly arranged. Wike added that the party is expecting about 2,500 delegates at the convention.

“Seating arrangements for all states have been completed, and the VIP section is ready. We do not expect more than 2,500 delegates.”

On internal disputes within the party, Wike admitted that disagreements still exist but insisted they would not disrupt the convention. He said reconciliation efforts will continue even after the event, as the party seeks to bring all aggrieved members back on board.

He also dismissed concerns over a Supreme Court appeal filed by a group led by Tanimu Turaki. According to him, such legal moves will not affect the convention or the party’s plans.

Wike maintained that disagreements are normal in a political party with a large membership base. He said the PDP leadership is committed to dialogue and compromise to ensure unity going forward.

“There is room for accommodation. The PDP is a very large party. Look at the umbrella, it is wide enough to accommodate everyone.”

He further explained that grievances are inevitable in any organisation but can be resolved through engagement and understanding.

“I have always said that in any group, there will be grievances. You cannot expect that in a family of two or three people, everyone will always be satisfied, let alone a party with millions of members. There will always be a few who are not happy. We have agreed to sit down with them, understand their concerns, and see how we can accommodate them. What is most important is the overall interest of the party.”

The FCT minister expressed strong optimism about the PDP’s chances in the 2027 elections. He said the party is working towards a major political comeback and promised that its performance would surprise many Nigerians.

“We’ll shock Nigerians,” he declared confidently.