Alhaji Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has explained why he endorses the decision of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) to zone its 2027 presidential ticket to the South.
While speaking at the party’s convention held on Saturday in Abuja, the former Kano governor said his support for the zoning arrangement was influenced by Nigeria’s political history and the role regional alliances have played in fostering national unity.
“Nigeria’s history teaches us that in our most challenging moments, visionary alliances have provided the way forward. In 1954, a historic partnership was formed between the Northern Elements Progressive Union (NEPU), led by Aminu Kano and the National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons (NCNC), led by Nnamdi Azikiwe to achieve national unity.
“Again, in 1960, against steep odds, Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe’s National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons (NCNC) formed a coalition with the Northern People’s Congress (NPC) to birth our independence.
“In the Second Republic, the alliance between Shehu Shagari and Alex Ekwueme under the National Party of Nigeria (NPN) helped restore civilian rule and national unity after years of military dictatorship.
“It is therefore with great sense of unity and solidarity, that as a loyal party member, I support the decision to zone the presidential ticket of the NDC to the South, so that it allows the region to complete its turn in producing national leadership,” he said.
He further described the arrangement as an avenue for reconciliation and inclusiveness across the country.
”We shall work in abidance with the party’s agreement to ensure fairness and federal character in all ramifications.
“This party shall also ensure to change the way things are done today by prioritising leadership without ethnic jingoism and religious favouritism,” he said.
The NDC had earlier announced during its convention that its 2027 presidential ticket would be ceded to the South, with the North expected to take over in 2031.
There are also growing speculations that former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi, may emerge as the party’s presidential candidate, with Kwankwaso tipped as a possible running mate.
