Destination Next | 2027 | NIGERIA'S GENERAL ELECTIONS

Nigeria 2027: The Road to the Ballot Begins

-EDITORIAL-

As Nigeria inches closer to its pivotal 2027 general elections, the political terrain is already buzzing with strategic maneuvers, party realignments, and electoral preparations. From zoning formulas to by-elections, the stage is being set for what promises to be one of the most consequential elections in the country’s democratic history.

PDP’s Strategic Reset: Zoning and Convention Plans

The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) is taking bold steps to redefine its internal structure and electoral strategy. Central to this is the unveiling of its zoning formula, scheduled for August 25, 2025. This formula will determine which geopolitical zones are favored for key positions, including the coveted presidential ticket.

Leading the charge is Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State, chairing a 44-member zoning committee tasked with ensuring regional equity and political balance. The committee’s recommendations will shape the party’s trajectory as it prepares for its National Elective Convention, set for November 15–16, 2025, in Ibadan, Oyo State, marking the first time the PDP will host such a convention in the South-West.

Speculation is rife about potential presidential contenders. Names like former President Goodluck Jonathan, Governor Seyi Makinde, and Governor Bala Mohammed are being floated, each representing different regional and ideological blocs. Jonathan’s eligibility remains a legal debate, while Makinde and Mohammed are seen as viable internal candidates with growing influence.

By-Elections: A Glimpse into 2027

On August 16, 2025, Nigerians in 16 constituencies across 13 states headed to the polls for by-elections, a litmus test for party strength and voter sentiment ahead of 2027. These elections were necessitated by vacancies due to resignations, deaths, and court-ordered reruns.

States like Kaduna, Anambra, Edo, Ogun, Kogi, Kano, Taraba, Niger, Zamfara, and others saw intense competition. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) deployed over 30,000 ad-hoc staff and 20,850 NSCDC personnel, with BVAS technology used for voter accreditation. Despite logistical challenges and isolated technical glitches, the process largely held firm.

However, political tensions flared. In Kaduna, opposition parties accused the All Progressives Congress (APC) of orchestrating disruptions and voter intimidation. Similar allegations surfaced in Zamfara, raising concerns about electoral integrity and the need for robust oversight in 2027.

Countdown to 2027: Key Milestones

With the electoral clock ticking, here’s a snapshot of the major milestones ahead:

Event	Timeline
Zoning Formula Announcement	August 25, 2025
PDP National Convention	November 15–16, 2025
Voter Registration Deadline	Mid-to-late 2026
Candidate Declarations	Late 2026
Campaign Period Begins	Late 2026 to early 2027
Election Day	February 20 & March 6, 2027

INEC’s pre-scheduled dates offer a structured roadmap, allowing parties and voters alike to prepare for a transparent and participatory process.

What Lies Ahead

As the political winds shift, Nigerians are watching closely. Will the PDP’s zoning strategy unify or divide? Can the APC maintain its grip amid rising opposition momentum? And will electoral reforms and technology ensure a free and fair vote? This journey to 2027 is yours to shape.