Tinubu Urges Peace, Fairness as APC Begins Nationwide Primaries

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to embrace peace, unity and sportsmanship as the party commences its nationwide primaries ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In a statement marking the commencement of the APC primaries, Tinubu described the exercise as a defining moment for the ruling party, noting that the primaries represent more than the selection of candidates.

According to the President, the process serves as “a referendum on our unity, resilience and strength as a party” and an opportunity to renew the ideals upon which the APC was founded.

Tinubu recalled that the APC was established on the principles of progressive politics, consensus democracy, sacrifice and selflessness, adding that those values had sustained the party through previous election cycles.

The President noted that discussions were already ongoing among party leaders at different levels to produce consensus candidates in line with the Electoral Act 2026 and the party’s constitution.

He described the consensus option as commendable, saying it would help reduce internal disputes and strengthen party cohesion.

While encouraging party members to take advantage of the consensus arrangement where possible, Tinubu stressed that where consensus fails, aspirants and delegates must conduct themselves peacefully during the primaries.

“Election is an essential ingredient of democracy. Where consensus fails, I urge us all to go into the primaries as brothers and sisters,” he said.

Tinubu warned against rancorous conduct and divisive politics, urging winners not to gloat and losers to accept outcomes in the spirit of sportsmanship.

He also called on victorious aspirants and party leaders to extend olive branches to those who may not emerge successful, insisting that politics should not be treated as a zero-sum game.

The President further urged governors, party executives and stakeholders to ensure a fair and transparent process that guarantees a level playing field for all aspirants.

Tinubu also appealed for greater inclusion of women and youths in the party’s affairs and electoral contests, describing the two groups as critical demographics that must not be sidelined.

He equally directed the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to remain professional and avoid interference during the primaries, stressing that their responsibility should be limited to maintaining peace and order.

The APC primaries are scheduled to begin with House of Representatives contests before culminating in the party’s presidential primary on May 25, 2026.