Odimmegwa Johnpeter/Abuja
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on members of the ruling All Progressives Congress to embrace unity, fairness, and sportsmanship as the party begins its nationwide primaries ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a statement issued Thursday from the State House, Tinubu described the commencement of the primaries as a “historic moment” for the APC, noting that the party was entering its fourth election cycle since its formation.
The President said the APC was founded on the principles of progressive politics, consensus democracy, sacrifice, and selflessness, adding that those ideals had continued to strengthen the party through previous electoral contests.
“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.
The primaries are scheduled to begin with contests for House of Representatives aspirants on Friday and end with the party’s presidential primary on May 25, 2026.
Tinubu commended ongoing efforts by party leaders and stakeholders to produce consensus candidates in line with the Electoral Act and the APC constitution, describing the option as a way to reduce rancour and preserve party cohesion.
While encouraging consensus arrangements where possible, the President stressed that where such efforts fail, aspirants and delegates must conduct themselves peacefully and democratically during the primaries.
“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 said, warning party members against actions capable of undermining the APC’s unity.
He also urged victorious aspirants and party leaders at all levels to reconcile with aggrieved members after the primaries, insisting that politics should not be treated as a “do-or-die affair.”
The President further charged governors, party executives, and other stakeholders to ensure fairness and provide all aspirants with a level playing field throughout the exercise.
Tinubu equally emphasized the need for greater inclusion of women and youths in the party’s political process, calling on delegates and leaders to give the two demographics “special consideration” during the primaries.
On security, the President directed the police and other security agencies to remain professional and limit their roles to maintaining peace during the exercise.
He wished all aspirants success in the contests and expressed optimism that the party would emerge stronger and more united ahead of the general elections.
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