In a strategic move to unify the party, the Peoples Democratic Party has zoned its national chairmanship position to the North-West. This decision came after a meeting of northern stakeholders in Abuja over the weekend.

According to sources within the party, the decision to zone the chairmanship to the North-West is part of broader efforts to ensure equitable representation. This move has narrowed the race for the national chairman down to three key figures: former Jigawa State Governor Sule Lamido, former Minister of Special Duties Tanimu Turaki, and former Kaduna State Governor Ahmed Makarfi.

Among these candidates, Turaki is reported to have garnered majority support. He is backed by several key stakeholders, including some sitting governors. This support positions him as the front-runner for the position.

A party insider explained the situation, stating, “The noise and tension in the party ahead of the convention are expected because it’s a democratic setting where members’ interests naturally differ. With an elective convention coming up in November in Ibadan, such disagreements are not unusual.”

He added, “However, despite these tensions, the party is making progress. Stakeholders are meeting, and discussions are ongoing about zoning and sharing of positions. Over the weekend, northern leaders, including governors, former governors, serving senators, and former principal officers of the National Assembly met in Abuja to deliberate on the region’s position, particularly concerning the office of the national chairman, which is the most senior position in the party.”

It was agreed that the position of national chairman should be micro-zoned to the North-West. Consequently, the zone is expected to produce the next national chairman of the party. As of now, the major contenders include the former Minister of Special Duties, who enjoys the support of several governors and a majority of members from the North-West and beyond.

Turaki is likely going to be the next PDP National Chairman. Also in the race are the former governor of Jigawa State, Alhaji Sule Lamido, and former Kaduna State governor, Ahmed Makarfi. The final decision will be made after the various zones conclude their consultations.

The North-West, North-East, North-Central, and South-West are all expected to meet and produce consensus candidates for their respective positions. Before the week ends, the list of consensus candidates, including that of the national chairman, is expected to be ready. An insider noted, “Don’t forget that the committee is still selling forms. If things go as expected in Turaki’s favour, he will resign from his current position as Co-Chairman of the National Convention Organising Committee to pick the form.”

The North currently occupies key National Working Committee positions, including the National Chairman, Deputy National Chairman (North), National Legal Adviser, National Organising Secretary, National Youth Leader, and National Treasurer, as well as the National Vice Chairmen representing the North-East, North-West, and North-Central zones.