The Niger State chapter of the All Progressives Congress, APC, has scrapped its long-standing governorship zoning arrangement, saying it has no constitutional backing and should not limit candidacy in the 2027 elections.
State Publicity Secretary Musa Sarkinkaji in a statement in Minna said neither the party’s constitution nor Nigeria’s Constitution recognises zoning as binding.
“Zoning is a political arrangement, not a constitutional provision. All qualified aspirants from any zone are free to contest, ” he said.
While the system has served as a political stabiliser for over 26 years of democracy in the state, promoting inclusiveness and balance, Sarkinkaji argued that it remains a convention rather than a legal requirement.
The party urged members to engage responsibly as competition heats up.
APC chieftain, Jonathan Tsado Vatsa welcomed the move, arguing that rotation over competence has hindered development and encouraged mediocrity.
“Niger State has paid a huge price for this undemocratic practice, and abolishing zoning could pave the way for merit-based leadership, ” he maintained.
The decision allegedly follows remarks by Senator Mohammed Sani Musa, who said he would have contested in 2027 if not for zoning.
Speaking during the flag-off of a foreign scholarship programme in Bosso, Minna, Musa noted, “We are one broom. Our party does not stop anyone from contesting.”
