Former presidential candidate and activist Omoyele Sowore has criticised the practice of zoning political offices to specific regions in Nigeria, describing it as a system that undermines competence and merit.
Sowore made the remarks during a recent interview, where he argued that political leadership positions should be determined by ability and competence rather than regional or ethnic considerations.
He faulted the zoning arrangement adopted by major political parties, insisting that it contributes to mediocrity in governance and limits the country’s chances of selecting the best candidates for leadership roles.
The activist also reiterated his position that there is no genuine political coalition forming ahead of the 2027 general elections. According to him, what is being described as a coalition is simply a gathering of political actors united by a shared desire for power.
He maintained that many of the individuals involved in the so-called opposition coalition are the same figures who have been part of Nigeria’s political and economic challenges over the years.
Sowore questioned the credibility of such alliances, arguing that they do not reflect any meaningful ideological shift or reform agenda.
He further referenced the 2015 political realignment that led to the defeat of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), noting that the movement was largely driven by widespread public dissatisfaction rather than elite-level political agreements among party leaders.
