NDC one-term tenure’ll guarantee massive support for Obi/Kwankwaso — Ahamba
Zoning Strategy Could Bolster Support for Obi, Kwankwaso, Says PDP Leader
By Johnbosco Agbakwuru
A prominent elder statesman and member of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Mike Ahamba, has argued that designating the presidential ticket for one term to the South, followed by a rotation to the North in 2031, may significantly enhance the prospects of Mr. Peter Obi and Senator Musa Kwankwaso if they are nominated.
Ahamba, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, emphasized the importance of adhering to agreements, although he noted that he is not inherently in favor of zoning.
Speaking on the New Nigeria Democratic Congress’s decision to allocate the presidential position to the South for a single four-year term before transitioning back to the North, Ahamba expressed that this could galvanize considerable support from the North for an Obi/Kwankwaso partnership.
When asked if this strategy could lead to a victory for the party, Ahamba replied in the affirmative. He suggested that the arrangement might attract Northern backing for Kwankwaso in 2027, stating, “It is quite favorable for them to support Obi and Kwankwaso. After four years, they can reclaim power for another eight years before returning it to the South.”
Ahamba referred to this zoning strategy as an “unwritten law,” asserting that it could serve as a convention to foster national stability. He clarified that there is no formal legislation mandating such an agreement, expecting that responsible politicians would honor it.
He elaborated on the expectations for any Southern candidate in the upcoming presidential race, saying, “If any Southerner runs for president in 2027, they should be aware they are contesting for a four-year term.”
Discussing the constitutional implications, Ahamba stated, “The Constitution does not address rotation or alternation; this is a convention based on party consensus.” He noted that, historically, various Nigerian regions had adhered to similar informal agreements to prevent political discord.
He further explained that if the presidency returns to the South after eight years, it should be allotted to a different part of the region to ensure fairness.
When reminded that the Constitution permits re-election for a second term, Ahamba reiterated the importance of upholding party agreements, stating, “Candidates should be gentlemanly enough to honor the NDC’s commitment.” He indicated that Obi has publicly committed to a four-year term, which supports the collective decision of the party.
Ahamba concluded by acknowledging his personal reservations about rotational politics, citing concerns over its potential to elevate less suitable candidates. “However,” he added, “many Nigerians now advocate for it, and as a democrat, I must adjust to this sentiment.”
