APC Rejects Automatic Tickets for Lawmakers, Governors Ahead of 2027 — Yilwatda

 

The National Chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Nentawe Yilwatda, has ruled out the possibility of granting automatic tickets to members of the National Assembly, state lawmakers and governorship aspirants ahead of the next general elections.

Prof. Yilwatda declared that every aspirant seeking elective office under the platform of the APC must return to the people and party structure to seek fresh endorsement, insisting that performance and acceptance by constituents should remain the deciding factors for re-election.

Speaking on the internal democratic process within the party, the APC National Chairman maintained on TVC programme that there was no justification for imposing candidates on the electorate or party faithful, stressing that elected officials must continually earn the confidence of the people through quality representation and service delivery.

According to him, the era where senators, members of the House of Representatives, House of Assembly members or governors expect automatic return tickets without consultation with the grassroots should not be encouraged in a democratic setting.

“There will be no reason for automatic tickets for House of Assembly members, House of Representatives members, senators and governorship aspirants. Their performance should be enough to earn them acceptance from their constituencies and party executives,” he stated.

Prof. Yilwatda further emphasized that the APC remains committed to fairness, internal democracy and accountability, noting that party leaders would not force candidates on members against the wishes of the people.

He argued that political office holders must remain connected to their constituents and party structures rather than relying on influence from powerful stakeholders to secure another term in office.

“There should never be a situation where a senator, House of Representatives member or House of Assembly member begins to seek support through imposition by party leaders. The people must decide if such individuals deserve another opportunity,” he added.

The APC chairman’s position is already generating reactions within political circles, especially among serving lawmakers and governors believed to be nursing ambitions for re-election in the 2027 general elections.

Political observers say the declaration may intensify political activities within the ruling party as aspirants prepare to justify their stewardship before delegates, party executives and voters.

The development is also being viewed as a move aimed at strengthening internal democracy within the APC and reducing grievances often associated with candidate imposition during party primaries.

Party faithful and analysts believe the stance could encourage greater accountability among elected officials, knowing that future tickets would depend largely on performance, popularity and acceptance at the grassroots.