Former Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom, has declared his full support for a southern presidency in the upcoming 2027 general elections, stating that fairness, justice, and national cohesion demand a shift in power to the South.

Speaking during a media chat with political correspondents in Makurdi on Tuesday, Ortom emphasized that Nigeria’s stability hinges on inclusive governance and respect for the country’s zoning arrangement.

“I strongly stand with the South on the 2027 presidency,” Ortom said. “Power must rotate to ensure balance. We cannot build a united Nigeria without fairness and equity.”

Ortom, a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and a leading voice in the G5 group of dissenting governors during the 2023 election cycle, noted that his position is consistent with his long-standing belief in regional justice and political inclusion.

While he did not endorse any specific candidate, the former governor called on political stakeholders across party lines to prioritize national interest above personal ambition, warning that marginalization breeds discontent and division.

Political analysts see Ortom’s declaration as a significant boost to growing calls within the South for power devolution and regional representation at the highest level of governance.

His statement is expected to influence ongoing internal party debates, especially as major political blocs begin strategic positioning ahead of party primaries and alliances.

Ortom also used the opportunity to urge political actors to focus on economic recovery, security, and youth empowerment in shaping the 2027 agenda, stressing that Nigerians are more concerned with performance than partisanship.