As disagreements grow over alleged plans to provide automatic return tickets to National Assembly members before the 2027 general elections, a storm is quietly brewing within the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The move is reportedly backed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, but some governors in the ruling party are organizing to thwart the plan.
As per reports to Leadership, two governors—from the South East and South West—are leading initiatives to prevent the automatic ticket system in their respective states. Shortly after the Sallah holidays in Abuja, the issue may be presented to APC National Chairman Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje.
Governors Split on President’s Stance It has been reported that some APC governors have taken a careful approach, hesitant to openly challenge the arrangement due to the president’s involvement. Others, though, continue to express their opposition openly.
In response to the controversy, Senator Hope Uzodimma, governor of Imo State and chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum, expressed his intent to align with the party’s decision.
He stated via his Chief Press Secretary, Hon. Oguwike Nwachuku: “Uzodimma will, as a faithful party member, adhere to the party’s decision regarding automatic tickets for lawmakers.”
He did clarify, however, that he was speaking solely on behalf of Governor Uzodimma and not the other APC governors.
Ganduje Supports the Comeback of Lawmakers Who Fulfill Their Duties Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje shared his perspective on the issue while speaking to party leaders from the North Central zone during a recent event where they endorsed President Tinubu for another term.
“It is important that we keep on expressing our gratitude to legislators for their backing… What is the reason for the high turnover of our legislators every four years? “Will that foster institutional memory?” Ganduje inquired.
“If it’s not possible to achieve through legal means, we can pursue it through advocacy. The party has the duty to engage in conversation with the National Assembly leadership to facilitate the return of those legislators who are highly active and influential.
Rift Widens Among Governors An unnamed source from the Progressive Governors Forum (PGF) disclosed that not all governors from the South West are against the automatic ticket plan.
“Two governors from the South West stated unequivocally that they are not involved in the rebellion,” the source reported.
“They hold the view that, given the possibility of strategic motives behind the President’s decision, governors ought to avoid contesting it.”
Insiders report that the initiative for automatic tickets is a component of a larger strategy aimed at solidifying the President’s control over the APC and averting internal conflicts that might lead to litigation during the party’s primaries.
The plan aims to prevent legislative inexperience and promote continuity at the National Assembly.
Even though the plan is strategically thought out, not all members of the APC support it.
In Ondo State, a prominent member of the APC and an ex-Niger Delta agitator have issued threats to back opposition parties should federal lawmakers from their constituencies be given automatic tickets.
It was reported over the weekend that the party leader pledged to fund rival candidates against the incumbent senator and House of Representatives member if the contentious proposal is not retracted.
Ex-Minister Hassan Abdullahi Exits APC In the wake of escalating tensions within the ruling party, Barrister Mohammed Hassan Abdullahi, who served as Minister of Environment during President Buhari’s administration, has resigned from the APC.
Abdullahi, a former Secretary to the State Government under ex-Governor Tanko Al-Makura, submitted his resignation to the APC chairman in Uke Ward of Karu Local Government Area in Nasarawa State.
In the letter, which was sent to other leaders of the party as well, he referred to personal reasons for his choice.
Abdullahi expressed appreciation for the opportunity to serve by writing, “I wish you and the party good luck.”
