A chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Dele Momodu, has criticised the growing emphasis on political zoning in Nigeria, arguing that many politicians now treat zoning as the primary qualification for winning presidential elections.
Momodu made the remarks during a live appearance on Prime Time, a programme aired on Arise Television on Tuesday.
The publisher of Ovation Magazine expressed concern over the increasing focus on regional power rotation in national politics, stating that the conversation often shifts attention away from pressing national challenges affecting ordinary Nigerians.
According to him, political actors have elevated zoning to an unhealthy level, making it appear more important than competence, leadership capacity and practical solutions to the country’s problems.
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“Politicians now treat zoning as the only credential needed to win presidential elections,” Momodu stated during the interview.
He argued that the continued dominance of zoning discussions in Nigeria’s political space serves as a distraction from critical national issues such as insecurity, economic hardship, unemployment and governance challenges.
“It’s a distraction, and I can say it without any fear of contradiction, that it is not what we need at this time,” he added.
Momodu also suggested that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and President Bola Tinubu understand the political significance of the zoning narrative, especially as discussions ahead of future elections continue to gather momentum.
According to him, some politicians rely heavily on regional sentiments and zoning arrangements because they believe such strategies improve their electoral chances.
“Winning an election is about strategy. However, those who want zoning have the right to their choices,” he said.
His comments come amid renewed national debate over whether Nigeria should continue the informal practice of rotating presidential power between the northern and southern regions of the country.
Supporters of zoning argue that it promotes fairness, inclusion and political balance in a multi-ethnic nation like Nigeria. Critics, however, insist that competence, vision and leadership ability should take priority over regional considerations.
Momodu’s remarks have since sparked reactions across social media and political circles, with many Nigerians divided over the role zoning should play in determining future leadership in the country.
As political parties begin consultations and preparations ahead of future elections, zoning is expected to remain one of the most debated issues shaping alliances, party strategies and presidential ambitions across Nigeria.
