- ADC Rejects Zoning Opens Presidential Ticket To All
- Agaba dismisses assumptions of northern candidate despite party leadership
- Party insists structure is solid and primaries will prioritise merit over region
A chieftain of the African Democratic Congress, Kelly Agaba, has said the argument for zoning Nigeria’s presidential ticket is outdated, insisting that the party will open its 2027 ticket to every qualified Nigerian.
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EKO HOT BLOG reports that Agaba stated this in an interview with Legit, where he explained that the ADC is moving past regional considerations as it prepares for the next general election.
He dismissed assumptions that the party’s presidential candidate would come from the north because its national chairman, Senator David Mark, hails from the region. According to him, the party will prioritise national interest over regional sentiments.
Agaba said, “We’re moving beyond regional considerations. The North/South dichotomy won’t plague our chances in 2027. Every Nigerian deserves a chance to participate, and we’ll ensure that happens.
“We believe zoning is an outdated concept. The ticket is open to every Nigerian who can vote and be voted for. Our primary election will be contested, and all contenders must wear the toga of sportsmanship. It’s time for politicians to sacrifice ego, greed, and desperation for the party to move Nigeria forward.”
He also addressed concerns on handling competing ambitions within the party, stressing that the ADC’s National Executive Committee is prepared for a credible exercise.
He said, “Managing diverse interests isn’t a challenge for our party’s National Executive Committee. With our national chairman, Senator David Mark, at the helm, we’re committed to a free, fair, and people-centric primary election. We’ll prioritize merit, competence, and national interest over regional considerations.”
Agaba maintained that the party’s structure remains solid, noting that the ADC is focused on building a stronger organisation ahead of 2027.
He added, “Our party foundation is solid. Party tickets are contended for; they’re not given on a platter of gold. Anyone who fears contest and wants a widow’s might isn’t prepared to govern our complex economy. We’re focused on building a strong, functional party structure.”
