President Bola Tinubu has called on members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to conduct themselves peacefully as the party begins its nationwide primary elections, warning against actions capable of creating division within the ruling party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a statement issued to mark the commencement of the primaries, Tinubu described the exercise as a major test of the party’s unity, resilience and internal strength.
The APC primaries begin with contests for the House of Representatives on May 15 and will end with the presidential primary scheduled for May 25, 2026.
According to the President, the exercise goes beyond selecting party candidates and should be seen as an opportunity to strengthen the ideals and unity of the APC.
“They are a referendum on our unity, resilience and strength as a party. They present an opportunity to renew the bond and ideals that we share,” he said.
Tinubu Backs Consensus Option
The President commended ongoing efforts by party stakeholders to adopt consensus arrangements in some contests, describing the option as one that could reduce tension and disagreements among members.
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He noted that where consensus fails, aspirants and delegates should approach the primaries with maturity, discipline and sportsmanship.
“I urge us all to go into the primaries as brothers and sisters,” Tinubu stated.
“All participants in the primaries, as contestants or voters, must keep the peace and be ready to play as sportsmen and women in the overall interest of the party and our country.”
Winners Told Not to Gloat
Tinubu cautioned victorious aspirants against celebrating in ways that could provoke bitterness, while urging those who lose to accept the outcome in good faith.
According to him, the party cannot afford internal rancour or divisive politics capable of weakening its structure before the general elections.
“We cannot afford rancorous conduct or the debasement of our democracy and party unity,” he said.
“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.”
The President also advised party leaders and successful aspirants to reconcile aggrieved members after the primaries.
“Our opponents are waiting for us to be against each other; we should disappoint them,” he added.
Governors, Party Leaders Asked to Ensure Fairness
Tinubu directed governors, party officials and leaders at various levels to provide a level playing field for all aspirants participating in the exercise.
He urged party stakeholders to avoid bias and ensure fairness throughout the process.
“You must rise above sentiment to offer all aspirants a level playing field that guarantees participation without let or hindrance,” the President said.
President Pushes Women, Youth Inclusion
Tinubu also appealed to delegates and party leaders to give special attention to women and young aspirants during the primaries.
He described women and youths as critical segments of the country’s population that should not be sidelined in the political process.
“The inclusion of women and youth is dear to my heart,” he said.
“We cannot afford to relegate the two significant demographics of our population.”
Tinubu Charges Security Agencies on Neutrality
The President further called on security agencies, especially the police, to remain professional and impartial during the primaries.
According to him, security operatives are expected to focus strictly on maintaining peace and order throughout the exercise.
“Your duties strictly centre on ensuring peaceful exercise. Nothing more,” he said.
Tinubu reaffirmed the APC’s commitment to progressive politics, consensus-building and internal democracy, noting that the party must remain united as it enters another election cycle.
Rafiyat Sadiq is a political, justice, and human rights reporter with Pinnacle Daily, known for fearless reporting and impactful storytelling. At Pinnacle Daily, she brings clarity and depth to issues shaping governance, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ rights.