The struggle for the national chairmanship of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has taken centre stage in the party’s internal wrangling, with heavyweight politicians jostling for control of what is widely regarded as the most strategic office in the opposition camp.

The position, party insiders informed Vanguard, will be pivotal in shaping the PDP’s 2027 presidential campaign machinery and determining how candidates eventually emerge.

Names already being bandied include former Kano State governor, Ibrahim Shekarau; former Benue governor, Samuel Ortom; and business leader, Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim from Kwara State.

Each aspirant, it was learnt, enjoys the backing of different blocs intent on influencing the PDP’s future direction.

A chieftain of the party aligned with the influential G-5 group of ex-governors told Vanguard that no final decision had been made on micro-zoning, the formula expected to distribute top offices across zones and states.

Asked if zoning had been settled, he replied, “No. Positions have not been micro-zoned yet. On a personal note, my leader (Ortom) has also decided to throw his hat in the ring for the national chairmanship position, so I have stood down my bid for the same position.”

Another senior PDP member disclosed that he had begun intensive consultations across states, laying groundwork for the eventual zoning decision.

He said, “I’ve already started. I’ve been to about eight states so far. It’s not just my ambition, it’s also part of the national chairmanship campaign. I’m just building bridges, doing what needs to be done. Personally, I have no vested interest in who becomes the presidential candidate of our party in 2027, none whatsoever.”

Party insiders admit that the absence of a clear zoning formula has intensified the competition, leaving many unsettled about the PDP’s readiness for 2027.

“The real issue now is the position of national chairman. Who should it go to? I’ve heard that Mallam Ibrahim Shekarau is being considered. There’s also Gbenga Hashim from Kwara. Some camps, however, are pushing strongly for Samuel Ortom to emerge as chairman,” another insider revealed.

Elders warn that the PDP risks repeating the mistakes of 2015, when zoning disputes triggered defections that weakened its national base.

“For now, let’s just wait and see. Fingers are crossed,” another source told Vanguard.