Mahdi Shehu has criticised the idea of granting automatic tickets in a democratic system, describing the practice as strange, alien and unacceptable.
Shehu’s comments follow reports surrounding the planned defection of Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, from the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
In a post shared on X on Sunday, Shehu argued that democracy does not recognise automatic tickets, warning that such arrangements undermine the principles of fairness, competition and voter choice.
“Automatic tickets are alien, strange and unknown in a real democracy,” he stated.
He added that the only automatic ticket guaranteed to everyone is “the inevitable automatic ticket to the grave,” insisting that offering or demanding automatic tickets amounts to overstepping democratic boundaries.
According to him, automatic tickets in a democracy “lead only to one destination,” as both those offering and those demanding them are acting beyond accepted limits.
Shehu’s remarks come amid reports that Governor Yusuf’s planned defection to the APC has hit a setback, after the ruling party reportedly refused to agree to his alleged demand for an automatic ticket for the 2027 Kano State governorship election.
Mahdi Shehu makes a valid point about automatic tickets in democracy. Should politicians earn their spots? Lets discuss!
I dont see why automatic tickets are such a big deal. If a party wants to save time and resources, why not?
I can see where Mahdi Shehu is coming from, but maybe automatic tickets have some benefits too? What do you think?
I think Mahdi Shehu makes a valid point about automatic tickets undermining democracy. We should prioritize fair and transparent elections.
I think Mahdi Shehu makes a valid point about automatic tickets in democracy. Its time for fair competition in politics!
I disagree with Mahdi Shehu on automatic tickets. Sometimes, exceptional candidates deserve recognition. What do you all think?