2027: Tinubu Reportedly Backs Automatic Senate Tickets for Bamidele, Yari, Aliero, Kalu, Others
President Bola Tinubu is reportedly considering automatic Senate tickets for selected lawmakers, including Opeyemi Bamidele, Abdulaziz Yari, Adamu Aliero and Orji Kalu, over their roles in stabilising the National Assembly.
ABUJA
Strong indications have emerged that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu may support the return of some serving senators to the National Assembly in the 2027 general elections by backing them for automatic tickets under the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The move, according to political sources, is aimed at preserving stability in the Senate and rewarding lawmakers who have played strategic roles in maintaining harmony between the legislative and executive arms of government since the inauguration of the current administration.
The development was reportedly hinted at by Kebbi State Governor, Nasir Idris, during a meeting with political stakeholders in the state, where he acknowledged the contributions of some senators to the smooth functioning of the National Assembly.
Key Senators Named
Among the lawmakers said to be under consideration for continuity are Senator Adamu Aliero representing Kebbi Central, Senator Abdulaziz Yari of Zamfara West, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu of Abia North, and Senator Opeyemi Bamidele representing Ekiti Central.
Others reportedly listed include Senator Yahaya Abdullahi, Senator Abdullahi Yahaya Abubakar, Senator Idiat Oluranti Adebule, Senator Danjuma Goje, and Senator Adetokunbo Abiru.
Political insiders say the lawmakers have been identified as key figures in the administration’s legislative support structure and are seen as crucial to sustaining policy coordination between the executive and the National Assembly.
Role in Legislative Stability
Governor Idris was quoted as saying that the lawmakers being considered have provided steady leadership, encouraged cooperation within the Senate, and helped ensure the passage of major legislative priorities of the Tinubu administration.
According to him, their continued presence in the Senate would promote legislative stability and strengthen the administration’s reform agenda.
Observers note that since the inauguration of the 10th Senate, the upper chamber has largely maintained a cooperative relationship with the presidency, particularly on key economic and governance measures.
Supporters of the arrangement argue that continuity in legislative leadership could help the government maintain policy momentum, especially as preparations begin for the 2027 election cycle.
No Official Confirmation Yet
Despite growing speculation, there has been no official statement from the Presidency or the national leadership of the APC confirming that automatic tickets will be granted to any senator.
Party insiders, however, say consultations are ongoing in some states regarding the political future of lawmakers considered loyal to the administration.
The reported plan has already stirred conversations within party ranks, with some stakeholders welcoming it as a pragmatic move to preserve institutional stability, while others believe it could generate tensions among aspirants hoping to contest the same seats.
Political analysts warn that the issue of automatic tickets remains sensitive, especially in a party as broad-based as the APC, where internal competition for nominations is often intense.
Mixed Reactions in Political Circles
The development has triggered debate among party members and political observers, with some describing it as a reward for loyalty and legislative discipline.
Others, however, argue that granting automatic tickets may undermine internal democracy by shutting out other party members interested in contesting for the seats.
Analysts say any formal decision in that direction would require careful balancing of party interests, especially in states where local political dynamics remain highly competitive.
Some stakeholders believe the presidency may prefer to encourage consensus arrangements rather than publicly endorse direct ticket allocations.
Still, the naming of high-profile senators in the reported arrangement suggests that political negotiations ahead of the 2027 elections may already be gathering momentum.
2027 Alignments Taking Shape
Although the 2027 elections are still some distance away, political realignments within major parties have already begun, with efforts to consolidate support bases and retain strategic allies.
The Senate remains a critical institution in the implementation of executive policies, making the retention of influential lawmakers an important consideration for the administration.
Should the reported backing materialise, it would signal an early attempt by the presidency to shape the legislative landscape ahead of the next electoral cycle.
For now, however, the proposal remains within the realm of political speculation, pending formal confirmation from the relevant authorities.