Benue APC: Alia’s Aide says automatic tickets could pitch party against voters

Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia has raised concerns over an alleged presidential directive granting automatic re-election tickets to serving All Progressives Congress (APC) officials, warning that such a move could clash with the state's customary practice of political rotation. Chief Press Secretary Tersoo Kula, speaking to journalists, said that if the directive indeed originated from President Bola Tinubu, it may have been based on inaccurate information about Benue's political norms and voter expectations.

Kula described the automatic-ticket proposal as "self-defeating," arguing that ignoring established zoning agreements could lead to public opposition and jeopardize the APC's electoral prospects in the state. He stressed that the Tiv principle of rotational leadership, expressed as "ya na angbian," has deeply influenced Benue's political dynamics and that many citizens prefer leadership to change rather than remain concentrated in the hands of the same individuals for extended periods.

Kula cited cases where politicians secured multiple mandates, albeit noting that such instances were infrequent in Benue's political history. He cautioned that disregarding voter preferences for rotation could ignite protests or vote against the party. Kula also suggested that those advocating for the automatic-ticket policy may have ulterior motives, possibly aiming to weaken the APC in Benue and protect their own political influence.

This controversy emerges amidst broader discussions on candidate selection and re-election rules ahead of upcoming elections, underscoring the clash between incumbent officials' desire for continuity and the rotational arrangements some view as essential for equitable representation in Benue State.