President Bola Tinubu has appealed to leaders and members of the ruling All Progressives Congress to avoid rancour and embrace consensus as the party commences its nationwide primaries ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a statement issued on Thursday from the State House, Tinubu described the APC primaries as a critical test of the party’s unity, resilience and democratic credentials, urging aspirants and party officials to conduct themselves with maturity and sportsmanship.
The APC primaries begin with contests for House of Representatives tickets and will culminate in the party’s presidential primary on May 25, 2026.
The President said the exercise was more than a routine selection process for candidates, calling it “a referendum on our unity, resilience and strength as a party.”
Tinubu praised ongoing efforts by party leaders to produce consensus candidates in line with the Electoral Act and the APC constitution, saying the arrangement could reduce internal disputes and strengthen 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 said.
However, the President acknowledged that consensus might not be achievable in all contests and urged aspirants to approach the primaries peacefully where elections become necessary.
“We cannot afford rancorous conduct or the debasement of our democracy and party unity,” Tinubu warned, adding that winners should avoid triumphalism while losers should accept outcomes in good faith.
“Our opponents are waiting for us to be against each other; we should disappoint them,” he stated.
Tinubu also cautioned against what he described as “do-or-die politics,” insisting that politics should not be treated as a zero-sum game.
In a direct message to governors, party executives and other influential figures within the APC, the President urged fairness and neutrality in the conduct of the primaries.
“You must rise above sentiment to offer all aspirants a level playing field that guarantees participation without let or hindrance,” he said.
The President further called for greater inclusion of women and youths in the party’s candidate selection process, describing both demographics as vital to Nigeria’s political future.
“The inclusion of women and youth is dear to my heart,” Tinubu said, appealing to delegates and party leaders to give them “special consideration” during the primaries.
He also directed the Police and other security agencies to remain professional and avoid interference in the exercise, stressing that their role should be limited to maintaining peace and order.
Tinubu expressed optimism that the APC would emerge stronger after the primaries and said he looked forward to working with victorious candidates ahead of the general election.
