By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to embrace unity, internal democracy and sportsmanship as the ruling party commences its nationwide primary elections ahead of the 2026 general elections.
In a State House statement titled “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Statement on the Commencement of APC Primaries Nationwide,” the President described the primaries as a defining moment for the party, which he said is entering its fourth electoral cycle since its formation.
“I am pleased to witness this historic moment in the annals of our party,” Tinubu said. “The party we formed just like yesterday is gearing up for its fourth election cycle. It is a source of pride for me, and I believe for all our distinguished leaders and teeming members.”
The APC, which was formed through a merger of major opposition parties in 2013, has governed Nigeria since 2015 and is now preparing for what is expected to be one of its most competitive internal selection processes yet, ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“Primaries are a referendum on our unity”
President Tinubu stressed that the upcoming primaries—beginning with House of Representatives contests and culminating in the presidential primary scheduled for May 25, 2026—should be viewed beyond mere candidate selection.
READ ALSO:Why Desmond Elliott May Lose APC Ticket in 2027
“The primary elections… are not mere exercises to produce our standard bearers. They are a referendum on our unity, resilience and strength as a party,” he said. “They present an opportunity to renew the bond and ideals that we share.”
He acknowledged ongoing consultations within the party aimed at producing consensus candidates, describing the approach as a “commendable option” capable of reducing internal conflict and strengthening 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,” the President added.
Warning against internal conflict
While urging consensus where possible, Tinubu emphasized that democratic competition must remain fair and peaceful where agreement fails.
“Where consensus fails, I urge us all to go into the primaries as brothers and sisters,” he said. “We cannot afford rancorous conduct or the debasement of our democracy and party unity.”
The Merit Newspaper reports that Mr President warned both winners and losers in the primaries to act responsibly, noting that victory should not lead to arrogance, while defeat should be met with maturity.
“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,” he stated. “We should not play the politics of old; the do-or-die politics that we have put behind us.”
READ ALSO:Ajadi Backs PDP–APM Alliance, Expresses Confidence in Oyo Central Senate Victory
Appeal to party leadership and inclusion of women and youth
The President also charged APC leaders, governors and stakeholders to ensure fairness and transparency in the conduct of the primaries, insisting that all aspirants must be given a level playing field.
“To the party leadership, our governors, and other leaders, I urge you to be fair and just,” he said. “You must rise above sentiment to offer all aspirants a level playing field that guarantees participation without let or hindrance.”
Tinubu further underscored the importance of women and youth participation in the party’s internal processes, calling for deliberate inclusion in candidate selection.
“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.”
Security agencies warned to remain neutral
The President also directed security agencies, particularly the police, to maintain professionalism throughout the electoral process.
“Lastly, the Police and other security agencies must remain professional and avoid acting as interlopers during this exercise,” he warned. “Your duties strictly centre on ensuring peaceful exercise. Nothing more.”
A test of APC’s internal strength
Political analysts say the APC primaries will serve as a major test of the party’s internal cohesion ahead of the 2027 elections, especially as early consultations suggest intense competition across key constituencies.
With the ruling party seeking to consolidate its dominance while managing internal ambitions, Tinubu’s message is widely seen as an attempt to set the tone for a disciplined and less divisive primary season.
The President concluded his message with optimism, wishing aspirants success and expressing confidence in the party’s ability to emerge stronger.
“I look forward to working with the victorious aspirants for the success of our great party in the general election,” he said.
