Tinubu Rejects Automatic Tickets for Senators, Empowers Governors

President Tinubu has refused pleas for automatic tickets, empowering APC governors to lead the primary process for the 2027 elections.

President Bola Tinubu addressing APC Governors and Senate leaders at the Presidential Villa regarding the 2027 primary elections.

President Bola Tinubu has firmly rejected requests by Senate leaders to grant automatic return tickets to sitting federal lawmakers. Instead, he has thrown his weight behind state governors, affirming their right to control the candidate selection process ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The decision was made during high-level meetings at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. On Wednesday evening, the Senate leadership had met with the President, hoping to secure his backing for direct primaries or automatic tickets. Their argument hinged on the need for continuity and stability within the legislature.

However, sources at the meeting revealed that President Tinubu was clear in his response. He reportedly told the lawmakers that governors remain the leaders of the party in their respective states. Consequently, they must have the final say on who flies the party’s flag.

Less than 24 hours later, the President met with APC governors at the Council Chamber. Following the discussion, Niger State Governor Mohammed Bago confirmed that the President had "ceded his executive power" to the governors. They are now mandated to drive the primaries in line with the Electoral Act.

This development has triggered anxiety among several senators and House members. Many lawmakers, particularly those with strained relationships with their governors, now face uncertain political futures.

In Ogun State, for instance, Senator Gbenga Daniel faces a tough hurdle as Governor Dapo Abiodun is reportedly eyeing his seat. Similar scenarios are playing out in Benue and other states where governors and federal lawmakers are locked in political battles.

Meanwhile, the APC has released a revised timetable for its primaries. Sales of nomination forms will commence on Saturday, April 25, 2026. The party has scheduled the House of Representatives primaries for May 15, the Senate for May 18, and the Presidential primary for May 23.

Party spokesman Duro Meseko emphasized that the constitution does not recognize automatic tickets. He noted that the selection process will strictly follow either consensus or direct primary methods as stipulated by law.