The All Progressives Congress (APC) has firmly rejected calls for automatic tickets for serving members of the National Assembly ahead of its 2026 primary elections, directing all interested lawmakers to seek fresh mandates through consultations with stakeholders in their constituencies.
The decision follows reports that some federal legislators had proposed automatic tickets as a means of ensuring continuity in the legislature. However, the proposal failed to gain traction with the party’s national leadership and the Presidency, amid concerns over its implications for internal democracy.
Sources within the party revealed that during recent engagements between APC leadership and members of its National Assembly caucus, lawmakers were advised to return to their respective states to engage governors, party executives, and grassroots stakeholders if they intend to secure renomination.
Party insiders emphasized that the APC’s structure places significant influence on state-level leadership, particularly governors, in determining candidate emergence. This underscores the importance of local political support and broad-based consultations in the lead-up to party primaries.
Observers argue that granting automatic tickets could erode accountability, discourage competition, and foster a sense of entitlement among elected officials. They warn that such a move would weaken democratic processes within the party and alienate grassroots participants.
The position of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is widely seen as supportive of due process and inclusiveness, prioritizing transparent and competitive primaries over preferential treatment for incumbents. Analysts believe this approach is aimed at strengthening party cohesion and credibility ahead of the 2027 general elections.
With the rejection of automatic tickets, all aspirants—including sitting lawmakers—will now be required to participate fully in the APC’s primary elections. This development signals a potentially intense and competitive contest, where candidate selection will be determined through established democratic procedures rather than incumbency advantage.
Political analysts note that the move could reshape internal party dynamics, encouraging greater engagement between elected officials and their constituents, while reinforcing the principle that political mandates must be earned rather than assumed.