President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to uphold unity, fairness, and sportsmanship as the party begins its nationwide primary elections ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a statement issued on Thursday, President Tinubu described the commencement of the primaries as a defining moment for the party, noting that the APC was entering its fourth electoral cycle since its formation.
The President said the primaries, beginning with House of Representatives contests and ending with the presidential primary scheduled for May 25, 2026, would serve as “a referendum on our unity, resilience and strength as a party.”
Tinubu said the APC was founded on the principles of progressive politics, consensus democracy, sacrifice, and selflessness, stressing that those ideals had helped sustain the party through previous election cycles.
The President acknowledged ongoing efforts by party leaders at various levels to adopt consensus arrangements for elective positions, describing the move as a commendable mechanism for reducing internal rancour and strengthening party cohesion.
“I note the impressive progress made in this regard and encourage fellow party members to make the most of this window to ensure a seamless process and a more unified party,” he stated.
However, Tinubu maintained that where consensus arrangements fail, party members should conduct themselves peacefully during the primaries and avoid actions capable of undermining party unity or democratic values.
He urged aspirants and delegates to approach the contests as “brothers and sisters,” while advising winners not to gloat and losers to show sportsmanship and remain committed to the party.
“Our opponents are waiting for us to be against each other; we should disappoint them,” the President said.
Tinubu also directed party leaders, governors, and officials overseeing the primaries to guarantee fairness and provide a level playing field for all aspirants.
According to him, even those who lose should leave the process convinced that the contest was fair and transparent.
The President further appealed for greater inclusion of women and youths in the party’s political process, describing both demographics as critical to Nigeria’s future.
“The inclusion of women and youth is dear to my heart,” he said, urging delegates and leaders to give them special consideration during the primaries.
Tinubu also warned security agencies, particularly the police, against interference in the exercise, insisting that their role should be limited strictly to maintaining peace and security.
He expressed optimism that the primaries would produce candidates capable of leading the party to victory in the general election.
