The North-Central Renaissance Movement (NCRM) has issued a significant warning to all political parties, declaring that any party that fails to zone the 2027 presidential ticket to the North-Central region will face severe electoral consequences. This ultimatum was delivered at a press conference in Abuja by Professor K’tso Nghargbu, Chairman and Convener of NCRM. Nghargbu highlighted that the North-Central zone, which encompasses Niger, Kogi, Benue, Plateau, Nasarawa, Kwara States, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT)-Abuja, has never produced an elected president or vice president since Nigeria gained independence, despite its consistent and substantial contributions to national stability.

Professor Nghargbu articulated the movement's stance unequivocally: “It is our duty and responsibility to state clearly that the North Central geopolitical zone seeks, requests, and demands that political parties cede their presidential ticket to our region. Patronising us means having our votes. Despising us means losing our votes.” He further emphasized the North-Central’s unique capacity to bridge the growing political chasm within Nigeria, particularly the escalating tensions between the elites of the far North and their counterparts in the South. The region, according to Nghargbu, is strategically positioned to foster healing and unity across the nation.

Highlighting the abundant leadership potential within the zone, Nghargbu referenced notable figures such as Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, a political leader of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the FCT, who has already expressed his intention to contest on the PDP platform. He also welcomed other aspirants from the region to join the race, underscoring the zone’s rich human capital. “The North-Central is blessed with enormous political resources and human capital. We are capable of addressing Nigeria’s leadership challenges and driving unity at this critical time,” Nghargbu asserted.

In addition to their presidential zoning demand, the NCRM also voiced strong support for the inclusion of independent candidacy in the Nigerian Constitution. They described this as a vital corrective measure against the undue influence of “money drunk and godfather drunk” political parties. Nghargbu stated, “Independent candidature is one of the answers Nigeria needs. It checks the excesses of political parties that deny genuine aspirants a chance.” As the 2027 general election draws nearer, the NCRM firmly maintains that granting the North-Central region the opportunity to hold the Presidency is not merely a matter of fairness and equitable representation, but a crucial and strategic imperative for fostering enduring peace, unity, and stability throughout Nigeria.