The All Progressives Congress has ruled out the possibility of granting automatic tickets to governors and lawmakers defecting from opposition parties ahead of the 2027 general elections, insisting that all aspirants must pass through competitive party primaries.
The party’s National Publicity Secretary, Mr Felix Morka, dismissed reports suggesting that high-profile defectors would be guaranteed tickets, describing such claims as “mischievous fabrications” designed to sow discord within the ruling party.
Morka stressed that the APC remains committed to internal democracy, noting that its constitution clearly provides for transparent and competitive primary elections as the only legitimate pathway for the emergence of candidates.
“The APC has not adopted and will not adopt automatic tickets for anyone,” he said.
“Our party’s processes are guided by democratic principles, and every aspirant, irrespective of status or background, must test their popularity through duly conducted primaries.”
The clarification comes amid a wave of defections and speculations around prominent political figures, including rumours that some governors, among them Taraba State Governor, Agbu Kefas, were seeking firm guarantees before making the switch to the ruling party.
Sources within the party also disclosed that the firm stance against automatic tickets is also aimed at reassuring long-standing members who have expressed concerns about being sidelined by new entrants with strong political leverage.
According to the sources, party leaders believe that protecting loyal foundation members while keeping the door open to defectors will help maintain internal balance and discipline as preparations for 2027 intensify.
Political observers say the position has triggered renewed debate within political circles, with some analysts arguing that it could slow the momentum of what critics have described as an emerging one-party dominance.
Nevertheless, the APC leadership maintains that popularity at the grassroots, rather than backroom negotiations, will determine who flies the party’s flag in the next election cycle.
With the 2026 political calendar fast approaching, the policy is expected to set the tone for a fiercely contested primary season across the country.
Credit: PUNCH