APC Lawmakers' Return Tickets Threatened by Tinubu's Move

The All Progressives Congress (APC) lawmakers are experiencing threats to their return tickets for the 2027 general elections due to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's recent empowerment of state governors. During a closed-door meeting at Aso Rock, attended by various governors including Hope Uzodimma of Imo State and Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq of Kwara State, Tinubu mandated governors to drive the party's primary process in line with the electoral act.

This development follows a meeting of the National Assembly leadership, led by Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Speaker Abba Tajudeen, who sought automatic tickets for federal lawmakers. However, APC National Chairman Nentaw Yilwatda ruled out automatic tickets for aspirants ahead of the 2027 elections, causing discomfort among lawmakers.

The situation has triggered intense lobbying and concerns about loyalty to the party, with some lawmakers contemplating defection due to fears of being sidelined by governors in candidate selection.