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President Bola Tinubu has urged members of the ruling All Progressives Congress to embrace unity, fairness and sportsmanship as the party begins its nationwide primary elections ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Eko Hot Blog reports that in a statement released before the commencement of the primaries, Tinubu described the exercise as a crucial period for the APC, noting that the party was preparing for its fourth electoral cycle since its formation.
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According to the President, the primaries should not only be viewed as a process for choosing candidates but also as an opportunity for party members to demonstrate commitment to democratic values and internal unity.
Tinubu said the APC was built on the ideals of progressive politics, sacrifice and consensus-building, stressing that members must continue to uphold those principles throughout the exercise.
He commended ongoing consultations among party leaders aimed at producing consensus candidates in some constituencies, describing the approach as one capable of reducing tension and strengthening cohesion within the party.
The President encouraged aspirants and delegates to adopt consensus arrangements wherever possible in line with the Electoral Act and the APC constitution.
However, he maintained that in areas where consensus fails, all contestants must conduct themselves peacefully and democratically.
Tinubu warned against divisive politics and actions capable of creating disunity within the party, saying the APC could not afford internal crises at such a critical political period.
“Our opponents are waiting for us to be against each other; we should disappoint them,” he said.
The President advised victorious aspirants against mocking or humiliating their opponents, while also urging those who lose to accept the outcome in good faith and remain loyal to the party.
He further appealed to party leaders at all levels to reconcile aggrieved members after the primaries and avoid what he described as “do-or-die politics.”
According to him, politics should not be treated as a winner-takes-all affair because every candidate represents the collective interest of the APC.
Tinubu also called on governors, party executives and stakeholders to ensure a level playing field for all aspirants, stressing that transparency and credibility remain important to the integrity of the process.
The President equally appealed for greater inclusion of women and youths in the party’s structure and electoral process, urging delegates to give them fair consideration during the primaries.
He said the APC must not sideline young people and women, who represent key segments of Nigeria’s population.
Tinubu also directed the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to remain professional, neutral and focused on maintaining peace and order during the exercise.
He expressed optimism that the eventual candidates emerging from the primaries would work together to secure victory for the APC in the general elections.
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