The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Nentawe Yilwatda, has dismissed widespread speculation suggesting that the ruling party may grant automatic tickets to National Assembly members seeking re-election.
Speaking during a media briefing in Abuja, Yilwatda made it clear that neither the APC constitution nor Nigeria’s Electoral Act provides for such a provision.
“There is no automatic ticket in our constitution. The party cannot promise an automatic ticket to anyone,” he stated.
He emphasized that the party remains bound by its internal regulations as well as national electoral laws, both of which outline the procedures for candidate selection.
“The constitution of the party does not provide for automatic tickets, and the party cannot wishfully promise automatic tickets to anyone. The Electoral Act also does not provide for automatic tickets. It clearly states that all primaries must be conducted either through consensus or direct primaries,” Yilwatda explained.
Reaffirming the party’s commitment to due process, the APC chairman noted that all aspirants, regardless of status, would participate in the same selection process.
“All members of our party will undergo the same process. We will rely on the Electoral Act, our party guidelines, and constitution to ensure fair participation in the primaries,” he added.
Yilwatda further indicated that performance in office would play a critical role in determining the chances of incumbent lawmakers.
“The people and party members will ultimately judge those who have performed well,” he said.
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