President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has urged members of the All Progressives Congress to maintain unity, discipline, and sportsmanship as the party begins its nationwide primary elections ahead of the 2026 general elections.
In a statement issued ahead of the commencement of the primaries, Tinubu described the exercise as a defining moment for the ruling party as it prepares for its fourth electoral cycle since inception.
The President said the APC was founded on the principles of progressive politics, consensus democracy, sacrifice, and commitment to collective goals, noting that those ideals had sustained the party through previous election cycles.
According to him, the primary elections, beginning with the House of Representatives contests and ending with the presidential primaries scheduled for May 25, represent more than a process for selecting candidates.
He stated that the exercise serves as a test of the party’s unity, resilience, and internal democratic strength.
Tinubu acknowledged ongoing consultations among party leaders aimed at producing consensus candidates in line with the Electoral Act and the APC constitution.
He described the consensus option as a commendable mechanism capable of reducing tension and strengthening cohesion within the party.
The President, however, stressed that where consensus arrangements fail, all aspirants and delegates must approach the primaries peacefully and in the spirit of brotherhood.
He cautioned party members against engaging in divisive or violent conduct, emphasizing the need to protect the party’s unity and democratic values.
Tinubu urged victorious aspirants to remain magnanimous in victory while encouraging unsuccessful contestants to accept the outcomes in good faith and continue supporting the party.
He further called on party leaders at all levels to reach out to aggrieved members after the primaries in order to preserve harmony within the APC.
The President also directed governors, party executives, and stakeholders to ensure fairness and provide a level playing field for all aspirants throughout the exercise.
Speaking on inclusion, Tinubu appealed to party members and delegates to support the participation of women and youths in the electoral process, describing them as critical to the future of the party and the country.
He also urged security agencies, particularly the Police, to remain professional and restrict their roles to maintaining law and order during the primaries.
Tinubu expressed optimism that the APC would emerge stronger and more united after the exercise, ahead of the forthcoming general elections.