APC rejects automatic tickets for N’Assembly members and insists on primaries

The ruling All Progressives Congress has firmly rejected calls to grant automatic tickets to serving members of the National Assembly ahead of the 2026 primaries, insisting that all aspirants must undergo a competitive nomination process.

The decision, which is in line with the party’s stance on internal democracy, followed growing pressure from some federal lawmakers calling for guaranteed return tickets.

However, the proposal was reportedly rejected by the party leadership and presidency over concerns that it would undermine fairness and accountability.

PLATFORM TIMES findings indicate that during recent engagements with the party’s National Assembly caucus, the APC leadership made it clear that no aspirant would be exempted from the primary process.

As a result, lawmakers have been advised to return to their constituencies and consult widely with governors and grassroots stakeholders if they intend to seek renomination.

Party sources say the directive strengthens the strategic role of state governors in determining the emergence of candidates, especially within the APC political structure.

A senior party official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, warned that granting automatic tickets could alienate party members from the rank and file and erode confidence in the party’s democratic credentials.

“Automatic tickets will create a sense of entitlement among rulers and weaken accountability. It could also trigger internal crises that could affect the party’s chances in the next general election,” the source said.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s position is also understood to be in favor of strict due process, with emphasis on inclusiveness and unity rather than preferential treatment for office holders.

Political observers point out that the rejection of automatic tickets could intensify competition within the ruling party, as both incumbent lawmakers and new entrants prepare to test their popularity in primaries.

With this development, all senators and sitting members of the House of Representatives under the APC platform are expected to participate in the 2026 primaries, setting the stage for what party insiders describe as a hotly contested exercise, driven by member will rather than incumbency advantage.

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