Nigeria TV Info 

Tinubu Leaves Lawmakers’ Fate in Governors’ Hands Over Automatic Ticket Debate

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reportedly shifted the responsibility of deciding the fate of lawmakers seeking automatic tickets to contest elections into the hands of state governors, in a move that signals deeper consultations within the ruling party ahead of the next electoral cycle.

According to party insiders, the development follows growing tension within political circles over the issue of automatic tickets for sitting legislators, with some members pushing for guaranteed return tickets while others argue for open primaries to strengthen internal democracy.

Sources within the party hierarchy indicate that Tinubu’s stance is aimed at balancing loyalty, performance, and political realities across states, allowing governors—who are closest to grassroots party structures—to assess and recommend deserving lawmakers for direct nominations or primary contests.

The decision has sparked mixed reactions among stakeholders. Supporters say it strengthens federal structure within the party and empowers states, while critics warn it could deepen internal divisions and increase governor-level control over legislative careers.

Party officials, however, insist that consultations are ongoing and that a final harmonised guideline on automatic tickets will be announced before the commencement of primaries.

Political analysts believe the move could significantly reshape power dynamics within the party, especially as lawmakers begin lobbying state executives for endorsements.