The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has clarified that its zoning arrangement will not bar aspirants from other regions from seeking the party’s presidential ticket in 2027.
Speaking on Arise Television’s Morning Show, PDP’s National Legal Adviser, Kamaldeen Ajibade, explained that while zoning remains a vital instrument of equity, it cannot supersede the Nigerian Constitution.
“Even if we zone our presidential candidate to the South, it will not stop anybody from any part of the country from showing interest. We cannot do things that will contradict the Constitution of Nigeria, which is the grand norm,” Ajibade stated.
The clarification echoed the long-held stance of technocrat and politician, Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, whose movement has consistently argued that zoning should not be used to exclude competent leaders from the race.
Reacting to the PDP’s position, the South West Coordinator of the Gbenga Hashim Solidarity Movement, Abass Olaniyi, described it as “a major victory for democracy and a vindication of Dr. Hashim’s ideological politics.”
He added that the PDP had chosen fairness and inclusivity in its approach to the 2027 polls.
Olawepo-Hashim, a businessman-turned-politician, has earned recognition for his issue-based politics and efforts to bridge Nigeria’s North-South divide.
His growing influence, particularly in Osun State, has intensified speculation about a possible 2027 presidential bid.