The All Progressives Congress (APC) has ruled out granting automatic tickets to National Assembly members and other aspirants ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking during a media appearance, APC National Chairman Nentawe Yilwatda said the party would not bypass due process, stressing that automatic tickets would violate both the Electoral Act and the party’s constitution.
According to him, all aspirants regardless of status must go through established procedures, either by participating in direct primaries or emerging through a consensus process where all parties agree.
Yilwatda acknowledged that some lawmakers had pushed for automatic return tickets, arguing it would help the party avoid internal disputes and costly primaries.
However, he insisted that internal democracy must be upheld.
The issue has long divided the party, with supporters of automatic tickets pointing to incumbents’ established political structures, while critics warn it shuts out new entrants and fuels resentment within the ranks.
Addressing concerns about recent political movements, Yilwatda also downplayed the impact of Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso’s reported defection, maintaining that the APC’s structure remains strong across key northern states.
He expressed confidence that the party would retain its influence in Kano and other parts of the North-West despite growing opposition activity.
