President Bola Tinubu
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday called on members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to embrace peace, fairness, and unity as the party commences its nationwide primary elections ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a statement released ahead of the exercise, Tinubu described the primaries as a defining moment for the ruling party, stressing that the process must strengthen internal cohesion rather than create divisions among party members.
“We cannot afford rancorous conduct or the debasement of our democracy and party unity,” the President stated.
The APC primaries are scheduled to begin with House of Representatives contests and will climax with the party’s presidential primaries on May 25, 2026.
Tinubu said the exercise goes beyond selecting candidates, describing it as “a referendum on our unity, resilience and strength as a party.”
Reflecting on the growth of the APC since its formation, the President said the party had continued to thrive because of its commitment to progressive politics, consensus democracy, sacrifice, and collective interest.
“We founded the All Progressives Congress (APC) on the firm principles of progressive politics, consensus democracy, and personal devotion and sacrifice,” he said.
According to him, the spirit of selflessness and commitment among party members has enabled the APC to emerge stronger after every election cycle.
The President also acknowledged ongoing efforts by party leaders to produce consensus candidates in line with the Electoral Act and the APC constitution.
“I am aware that leaders at various levels have initiated conversations to produce consensus candidates. It is a commendable option that would help in reducing rancour and bad blood among party members,” Tinubu stated.
While supporting consensus arrangements, Tinubu stressed that where agreements fail, aspirants and delegates must conduct themselves peacefully during the primaries.
“Where consensus fails, I urge us all to go into the primaries as brothers and sisters,” he said.
The President appealed to winners not to mock defeated aspirants, while urging losers to remain loyal to the party and prepare for future opportunities.
“In every contest, there will be a winner and a loser. I urge the winners not to gloat in victory and the losers to show sportsmanship by taking things in their stride and preparing for another time,” he said.
Tinubu warned party members against reviving what he described as “do-or-die politics,” insisting that political contests should never become a zero-sum game.
“We should not play the politics of old; the do-or-die politics that we have put behind us. Politics should never be a zero-sum game,” the President added.
He further directed party leaders and governors to ensure fairness and transparency throughout the exercise.
“To the party leadership, our governors, and other leaders, I urge you to be fair and just. You must rise above sentiment to offer all aspirants a level playing field,” Tinubu said.
The President also advocated greater participation for women and youths in the party’s internal electoral process.
“The inclusion of women and youth is dear to my heart. I appeal to voters in the primaries and leaders at all levels to give special consideration to our women and youth in the contest,” he noted.
Tinubu equally cautioned security agencies against interfering in the exercise, reminding them to remain neutral and professional.
“The Police and other security agencies must remain professional and avoid acting as interlopers during this exercise. Your duties strictly centre on ensuring peaceful exercise. Nothing more,” he said.
The President expressed optimism that the APC would emerge stronger after the primaries and wished all aspirants success in the contests ahead.
