The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kwara State has officially declared that its governorship ticket for the 2027 general elections will be open to qualified aspirants from all three senatorial districts, effectively bypassing traditional zoning arrangements.

The State Chairman of the party, Hon. Adamu Issa Bawa, made this announcement in Ilorin during a radio personality programme. Bawa, who notably hails from Kaiama in Kwara North the district currently leading the loudest agitation for power rotation emphasized that the party's priority is competence and "capacity to govern" rather than geographical origin.

"Our policy is that we are leaving our ticket open to the three senatorial districts," Bawa stated. "Anybody who has what it takes to govern this state is free to come out and campaign. We will provide a level playing field for all."

The decision is seen as a significant setback for groups in Kwara North who have spent months advocating for a power shift to the district in the spirit of equity. Similar demands have recently surfaced from Kwara South, but the PDP leadership appears to be prioritizing a "merit-based" approach to maximize its chances of unseating the ruling APC.

The chairman's remarks have already begun to spark debate within the party's rank and file, with some stakeholders arguing that an open contest is the most democratic route, while others fear it may alienate districts that feel marginalized in the state's political history.