- According to them, this has placed federal lawmakers in a vulnerable position
- He noted that many lawmakers feel exposed to the decisions of governors
- One lawmaker lamented that despite the support they have given the administration, often criticised by the public
Some lawmakers of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the National Assembly have warned they could leave the party if they are denied tickets ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The legislators, who spoke anonymously, expressed concern over reports that President Bola Tinubu may have allowed state governors greater control over candidate selection in their respective states, Eko Hot Blog gathered.
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According to them, this has placed federal lawmakers in a vulnerable position, with some governors accused of wielding excessive influence.
One lawmaker lamented that despite the support they have given the administration, often criticised by the public, they have not received adequate backing in return.
He noted that many lawmakers feel exposed to the decisions of governors, without protection from the party’s leadership at the national level.
Several others hinted that they might seek platforms in opposition parties if they are denied the APC ticket, expressing confidence that their political base would still support them regardless of party affiliation.
They also appealed to the president to reconsider any such arrangement, stressing that members of the National Assembly remain critical to governance and to his political future.
One of them pointed out that it was not too late for adjustments, especially given ongoing legislative responsibilities, including pending requests from the executive and the presentation of a national budget.
Meanwhile, the debate over automatic tickets gained traction after Kebbi State Governor Nasir Idris suggested such a plan during a stakeholders’ meeting.
He mentioned several senators who could benefit from the arrangement, including Adamu Aliero, Abdulaziz Yari, Orji Uzor Kalu and Opeyemi Bamidele.
Others reportedly listed were Yahaya Abdullahi, Abdullahi Yahaya Abubakar, Idiat Oluranti Adebule, Danjuma Goje and Adetokunbo Abiru.
Idris explained that those named had contributed significantly to stability in the National Assembly and helped maintain cooperation between the legislature and the executive.
Despite the growing controversy, neither the Presidency nor the APC leadership has officially confirmed any plan for automatic tickets, though the issue continues to stir debate within the ruling party.
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