Writing By Daniel Karlmax; Editing By Godwin Duru
Stakeholders of the Obidient Movement and the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in Kaduna South Senatorial District have called on the leadership of the party to zone its governorship ticket for the 2027 Kaduna State governorship election to Southern Kaduna, citing principles of equity, inclusion, and political justice.
Addressing journalists in Kaduna, the Coordinator of the Obidient Movement and NDC Stakeholders in the Southern Senatorial Zone, Pastor Isaac Ango Makama, said the demand was based on the district’s unwavering support for the movement for political change and good governance championed by Mr. Peter Obi during the 2023 general elections.
Makama congratulated the national leadership of the NDC on the successful conduct of its recent primaries and urged the party to build on its democratic credentials by ensuring fair representation in its political calculations ahead of the 2027 elections.
According to him, Southern Kaduna emerged as one of the strongest supporters of the reform-driven political movement represented by Peter Obi and the Labour Party during the 2023 elections, demonstrating a commitment to competence, accountability, national unity, and progressive leadership.
“The voting pattern in Southern Kaduna was not accidental. It reflected the aspirations of a people who have consistently advocated fairness, equity, good governance, and inclusive leadership,” he stated.
He argued that as the NDC positions itself as a viable alternative political platform in Kaduna State, it should recognize and reward the sacrifices, loyalty, and political courage demonstrated by the people of Southern Kaduna.
“Zoning the governorship ticket to Kaduna South Senatorial District is not merely a political concession. It is an acknowledgment of the democratic commitment and sacrifices made by a people who have remained steadfast in the struggle for a better Kaduna State,” Makama said.
The stakeholders further noted that Southern Kaduna is home to several competent and experienced individuals capable of providing effective leadership for the state, stressing that the issue goes beyond regional considerations and speaks to creating an equitable platform for all sections of Kaduna State.
They also pointed out that the major political parties have largely concentrated their governorship tickets in other senatorial zones, creating a strategic opportunity for the NDC to broaden its appeal by presenting a candidate from Southern Kaduna.
According to the group, while the APC and PDP have historically produced candidates from the Central Senatorial Zone and other emerging political parties have focused on the Northern Zone, the NDC stands to gain significant political advantage by zoning its ticket to the Southern Senatorial District.
The stakeholders expressed confidence that such a decision would strengthen the party’s electoral prospects, inspire greater voter confidence, and demonstrate its commitment to justice, diversity, and inclusion.
“We are convinced that presenting a governorship candidate from Southern Kaduna will not only enhance the NDC’s chances of victory but also send a clear message that the party rewards loyalty, respects diversity, and upholds the principles of fairness and inclusion,” the statement added.
The group emphasized that its advocacy is peaceful, democratic, and intended to promote party unity rather than division.
“We are not opposed to any zone or group. Our appeal is rooted in the political realities of recent elections and the aspirations of thousands of party supporters across Kaduna State,” Makama said.
The stakeholders therefore called on the national leadership of the NDC and other stakeholders to support the zoning of the governorship ticket to Southern Kaduna.
