The All Progressives Congress (APC) on Sunday, April 5, rejected calls for automatic tickets for serving senators and members of the house of representatives, reaffirming its commitment to internal democracy and competitive primaries ahead of the 2026 elections.
Reports indicate that the proposal, championed by some national assembly leaders, failed to gain the support of the party’s national leadership or the presidency.
While it was presented as a strategy to ensure legislative continuity, it did not receive endorsement at the highest levels.
The APC leadership remains divided on the issue, with strong opposition from key stakeholders who argue that such a policy would undermine democratic principles.
As a result, the matter remains unresolved, with ongoing consultations rather than any formal adoption.
Notably, outcomes from a recent meeting between the APC national chairman and members of the national assembly caucus point to a clear stance: lawmakers were directed to return to their respective states and consult with governors and local political structures if they seek renomination.
This directive underscores the party’s structure, where governors play a central role in political coordination and candidate selection at the state level.
The rejection of automatic tickets reflects broader concerns within the party that such a move could weaken accountability, reduce grassroots participation, and foster a sense of entitlement among elected officials.
Party insiders have also warned that bypassing primaries could trigger internal dissent and harm the party’s credibility ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The posture of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as inferred from these developments, aligns with promoting party unity through due process rather than endorsing preferential treatment.
The emphasis remains on inclusiveness, consultation, and adherence to established nomination procedures.
In practical terms, the APC leadership’s message is clear: no automatic tickets will be granted.
All aspirants, including incumbent lawmakers, must return to their constituencies, align with state leadership, and participate fully in the primary election process.
The 2026 primaries are therefore expected to be competitive, transparent, and reflective of the will of party members, rather than determined by incumbency.
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