The All Progressives Congress (APC) has shut down agitation for automatic tickets for serving members of the National Assembly ahead of the 2026 primary elections, directing lawmakers to consult widely with stakeholders in their constituencies if they seek renomination.
Reports from major national dailies indicate that the proposal, reportedly championed by some lawmakers in the National Assembly, failed to secure the support of the party’s national leadership and the Presidency.
According to media reports, the push for automatic tickets was presented as a strategy to ensure legislative continuity. However, resistance from key stakeholders within the party prevented the adoption of the proposal, citing concerns that it would undermine democratic principles and internal competition.
Findings from recent engagements between the APC National Chairman and members of the National Assembly caucus revealed that lawmakers were instructed to return to their respective states and engage governors and party structures to secure support ahead of the primaries.
Party insiders noted that the position reflects the party’s structure, where state leadership, particularly governors, plays a central role in coordinating political activities and determining candidate emergence at the grassroots level.
Observers within the party warned that granting automatic tickets could weaken accountability, limit grassroots participation, and create perceptions of entitlement among elected officials.
The stance of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is widely interpreted as favouring due process and inclusiveness, rather than preferential treatment for incumbents, in order to maintain party unity ahead of the 2027 general elections.
With the rejection of automatic tickets, all aspirants, including incumbent lawmakers, are expected to participate fully in the primary election process.
The development signals that the 2026 primaries within the APC are likely to be competitive, with candidate emergence determined through established democratic procedures rather than incumbency advantage.
