‘Automatic Tickets Don’t Exist in Democracy’ — Mahdi Shehu Warns Kano Politicians

Prominent public affairs commentator Mahdi Shehu has sharply criticised the idea of automatic political tickets, warning that such arrangements have no place in a democratic system.

His comments come amid growing speculation over the possible defection of Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, from the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

In a post shared on X on Sunday, Mr Shehu argued that democracy is built on competition, choice and internal party processes — principles he said are undermined when politicians seek or are offered guaranteed tickets.

“Automatic tickets are alien, strange and unknown in a real democracy,” he wrote.

Using strong language, Mr Shehu likened such political arrangements to an abuse of power, warning that both those demanding and those offering automatic tickets risk overstepping democratic and moral boundaries.

“The only automatic ticket available to everybody is the inevitable automatic ticket to the grave, willy-nilly,” he said. He added that any attempt to bypass democratic procedures amounts to “playing God” and carries consequences.

His intervention follows reports that Governor Yusuf’s planned move to the APC has hit a roadblock, after the party allegedly declined to grant him an automatic ticket for the 2027 Kano governorship election.

While neither Governor Yusuf nor the APC leadership has publicly confirmed the details of the negotiations, the controversy has reignited debate over internal party democracy and the growing influence of political bargaining ahead of the 2027 elections.

Political analysts say the unfolding developments could shape alliances in Kano State, a key battleground with significant electoral weight in northern Nigeria.