President has called on members and aspirants of the to embrace peace, fairness and sportsmanship as the party commences its nationwide primary elections ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a statement released on Thursday from the State House, the president described the commencement of the APC primaries as a historic milestone for the party, noting that the ruling party was entering its fourth election cycle since its formation.
Tinubu said the APC was founded on the principles of progressive politics, consensus democracy, sacrifice and devotion to party ideals, stressing that such values had continued to strengthen the party over the years.
“We founded the APC on the firm principles of progressive politics, consensus democracy, and personal devotion and sacrifice. This principle of selflessness and devotion has seen us go through each election cycle and come out firmer together,” he said.
The president noted that the primaries, which are scheduled to begin with the House of Representatives contests on Friday and end with the presidential primary on May 25, were not merely exercises to select candidates but a test of the party’s unity and resilience.
“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. They present an opportunity to renew the bond and ideals that we share,” he stated.
Tinubu acknowledged ongoing efforts by party leaders and stakeholders to produce consensus candidates in line with the Electoral Act 2026 and the APC constitution.
According to him, the consensus option would help minimise rancour and strengthen unity within the party.
“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,” the president said.
He, however, urged party members to remain peaceful and conduct themselves as brothers and sisters where consensus arrangements fail and direct primaries become necessary.
The president warned against bitterness, divisive conduct and violence during the exercise, stressing that politics should not be treated as a do-or-die affair.
“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 by taking things in their stride and preparing for another time,” he said.
“Our opponents are waiting for us to be against each other; we should disappoint them,” he added.
Tinubu also advised successful aspirants and party leaders to reach out to those who may lose during the primaries, urging them to avoid exclusionary politics.
“Politics should never be a zero-sum game. Any candidate that wins does so for all of us as a party,” he stated.
The president further appealed to governors, party leaders and officials overseeing the primaries to ensure fairness and provide a level playing field for all aspirants.
“You must rise above sentiment to offer all aspirants a level playing field that guarantees participation without let or hindrance,” he said.
Tinubu also advocated greater inclusion of women and youths in the party’s electoral process, describing them as critical demographics that must not be sidelined.
“The inclusion of women and youth is dear to my heart. I appeal to voters in the primaries and leaders at all levels to give special consideration to our women and youth in the contest,” he said.
He equally called on the police and other security agencies to remain professional and avoid interference during the primaries.
“Your duties strictly centre on ensuring peaceful exercise. Nothing more,” the president warned.
Mr Tinubu wished all aspirants and party members a successful outing and expressed optimism that the APC would emerge stronger ahead of the general elections.
