President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has called on members of the ruling All Progressives Congress to embrace unity, fairness, and sportsmanship as the party officially commences its nationwide primaries ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a strongly worded statement released from the State House on Thursday, President Tinubu described the commencement of the APC primaries as a defining moment in the history of the party, noting that the exercise marks the fourth electoral cycle of the party since its formation.
The President expressed pride in the growth and resilience of the APC, stressing that the party was founded on the ideals of progressive politics, consensus-building, sacrifice and democratic inclusiveness.
According to him, the primaries, beginning with the House of Representatives contests and culminating in the presidential primaries scheduled for May 25, 2026, are not merely political exercises but a major test of the party’s unity, discipline and democratic maturity.
President Tinubu commended ongoing efforts by party leaders across the federation to adopt consensus arrangements in line with the Electoral Act and the APC constitution, describing the move as a strategic approach to reducing internal conflicts and strengthening party cohesion.
The Nigerian leader, however, maintained that where consensus arrangements fail, party members must conduct themselves peacefully and democratically during the primaries.
He urged aspirants, delegates and party stakeholders to avoid divisive politics capable of undermining the unity and stability of the party, emphasizing that politics should never be treated as a “do-or-die affair.”
President Tinubu advised victorious aspirants against arrogance in victory while encouraging unsuccessful contestants to accept outcomes in good faith and utilize internal party mechanisms for redress where necessary.
“Our opponents are waiting for us to be against each other; we should disappoint them,” the President stated, while calling on party leaders and winners of the primaries to extend reconciliation and olive branches to aggrieved members after the contests.
The President also charged APC governors, party executives, and stakeholders at all levels to ensure transparency, fairness, and equal opportunities for all aspirants participating in the process.
Highlighting the importance of inclusiveness in Nigeria’s political development, Tinubu appealed to party members to give greater support and consideration to women and youths seeking elective positions under the APC platform.
He noted that the active participation of women and young people remains critical to the future growth of the party and the country’s democracy.
President Tinubu further directed the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to remain neutral, professional, and focused solely on maintaining peace and order throughout the exercise.The President concluded by wishing all aspirants success in the primaries and expressed optimism that the
