2027: Saraki advocates balanced zoning, defends PDP’s relevance amid crisis
Former Senate President Bukola Saraki has called for an inclusive and balanced leadership selection process within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He proposed that the party’s presidential ticket be zoned to the South, while the position of national chairman should be allocated to the North-Central region to ensure fairness and equity.
Saraki made these remarks on Thursday during an appearance on Politics Today, where he dismissed claims that the PDP has lost its relevance.
He acknowledged that the party is currently facing challenges but expressed optimism that the situation could strengthen the PDP if properly managed.
The former Senate President also warned against the emergence of a one-party state, stressing that a strong opposition is essential for Nigeria’s democracy.
He maintained that despite internal crises, the PDP remains a formidable political force in the country.
Responding to claims that the party is “dead and buried,” Saraki said such views stem mainly from disagreements among political elites rather than the reality at the grassroots level.
On internal party issues, he revealed that although he initially opposed the PDP convention in Ibadan, he later allowed Kwara delegates to participate after assurances from Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), noting that the commission’s absence meant the exercise should have been halted.
