The All Progressives Congress (APC) has dismissed reports suggesting that incumbent members of the National Assembly have been granted automatic tickets ahead of the 2027 general elections, insisting that the party remains committed to internal democracy and open primaries.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, the APC described the reports as “inaccurate and misleading,” reaffirming that all aspirants would have to go through a transparent nomination process as stipulated in the party’s constitution.
“The APC has not made any decision to offer automatic tickets to any category of aspirants, including sitting lawmakers,” the statement read. “While we recognize the contributions of our serving legislators, candidate selection for the 2027 elections will be conducted in line with our rules and the Electoral Act.”
The clarification comes amid speculation that the ruling party was considering shielding loyal lawmakers from internal competition, especially those who played key roles in legislative support for President Bola Tinubu’s policy agenda.
However, party insiders suggest that while performance and loyalty may be factors in the broader political calculus, the APC leadership is wary of alienating its grassroots base by bypassing the primary process — a move that has historically triggered internal disputes and defections.
Political analysts view the statement as a move to calm tensions among aspirants ahead of the party’s expected convention later this year.
“This is the APC’s way of reaffirming its commitment to inclusiveness, especially with many younger members and newcomers eyeing legislative seats in 2027,” said Dr. Aisha Abdullahi, a political scientist at Ahmadu Bello University.
The party has urged members to disregard unverified reports and focus on strengthening structures at the ward and local government levels in preparation for the upcoming election cycle.
With political jostling already underway across party lines, observers say the next few months will be critical for maintaining cohesion within Nigeria’s dominant ruling party.
