May 14, (THEWILL) — President Bola Tinubu has urged members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to embrace sportsmanship, unity and consensus as the ruling party begins its nationwide primaries ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a statement personally signed on Thursday, Tinubu cautioned party faithful against divisive politics and rancorous conduct capable of undermining internal democracy and weakening party cohesion.
The nationwide primaries, scheduled to commence on Friday with House of Representatives elections, will conclude on May 25 with the presidential primaries.
Describing the exercise as more than a candidate selection process, the President said the primaries represent a referendum on the APC’s unity, resilience and democratic strength.
According to him, the process offers members an opportunity to renew their commitment to the ideals and shared vision upon which the party was founded.
“I am pleased to witness this historic moment in our party. The party we formed just yesterday is entering its fourth election cycle”, Tinubu stated.
The President recalled that the APC was established on the principles of progressive politics, consensus democracy, sacrifice, personal devotion and selflessness, adding that those ideals had sustained the party through successive elections and governance responsibilities. He, therefore, urged party leaders and stakeholders to consolidate on those values as the APC prepares for another round of nationwide internal contests.
Tinubu also acknowledged efforts by party leaders to produce consensus candidates in several states in line with provisions of the Electoral Act 2026 and the APC constitution. He described consensus arrangements as commendable and beneficial to party stability, noting that they help to minimise bitterness, rancour and internal divisions often associated with competitive primaries.
The President encouraged stakeholders to maximise the consensus option wherever possible in the interest of party unity and seamless electoral processes.
However, he stressed that where consensus candidates fail to emerge, aspirants and delegates must approach the primaries peacefully and conduct themselves as members of one political family.
“All participants in the primaries, whether contestants or voters, must keep the peace and act as sportsmen and women in party interest”, he said.
Tinubu further advised victorious aspirants against triumphalism, urging them instead to reconcile with fellow party members after the contests. He also appealed to unsuccessful aspirants to demonstrate maturity, loyalty and continued commitment to the APC’s long-term success.
“Our opponents are waiting for us to fight each other; we should disappoint them. Winners should reach out to those who did not succeed”, the President added.
The President further called for greater inclusion of women and youths in the party’s internal electoral process, describing them as critical stakeholders whose participation must be strengthened. He also appealed to the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to maintain professionalism throughout the primaries by limiting their roles to ensuring peaceful conduct and public safety.
Tinubu expressed confidence that peaceful, transparent and inclusive primaries would further strengthen the APC ahead of the next general elections and reinforce democratic values within the party.
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