President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to uphold peace, unity, and sportsmanship as the party commences its primary elections ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Tinubu, in a message on Thursday, addressed to party leaders, aspirants, and members, described the forthcoming primaries as a defining moment for the ruling party, stressing that the exercise must strengthen rather than divide the APC.
The President noted that the APC, founded on the principles of progressive politics, consensus democracy, sacrifice, and selflessness, has continued to wax stronger through successive election cycles.
According to him, the party’s ability to remain united over the years should be consolidated upon as members prepare for the primaries beginning with the House of Representatives contests and ending with the presidential primary scheduled for 25 May 2026.
“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,” Tinubu stated.
He commended ongoing efforts by party leaders to adopt consensus arrangements in line with the Electoral Act 2026 and the APC constitution, saying such moves would help reduce rancour and deepen internal cohesion.
While encouraging members to maximize the consensus option where possible, the President urged aspirants and delegates to conduct themselves peacefully in situations where consensus could not be achieved.
He cautioned against bitterness, divisive conduct, and the “do-or-die” style of politics, insisting that party elections should not be treated as a zero-sum contest.
“In every contest, there will be winners and losers. 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 also urged victorious aspirants and party leaders to extend olive branches to unsuccessful contestants to maintain party harmony ahead of the general elections.
The President further appealed to governors, party executives, and stakeholders to provide a level playing field for all aspirants, stressing that fairness and justice remain essential for credible primaries.
He emphasized the need for greater inclusion of women and youths in the party’s political process, describing the two groups as critical demographics that must not be sidelined.
“The inclusion of women and youth is dear to my heart,” he said, while urging delegates and party leaders to give them special consideration during the primaries.
Tinubu also charged the Police and other security agencies to remain neutral and professional throughout the exercise by focusing strictly on maintaining law and order.
He expressed optimism that the APC would emerge stronger after the primaries and wished all aspirants success in the contests.
The President reaffirmed his readiness to work with all victorious candidates to ensure the party’s success in the 2027 general elections.
