President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has called on members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to embrace peace, unity, and sportsmanship as the party commences its nationwide primary elections ahead of the 2026 general elections.
In a statement released on Thursday, President Tinubu described the primaries as a defining moment for the party, noting that the APC was entering its fourth election cycle since its formation.
According to the President, “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.”
President Tinubu commended ongoing efforts by party leaders to adopt consensus arrangements in some areas, saying the move would help reduce internal disputes and strengthen party cohesion.
“I am aware that… leaders at various levels have initiated conversations to produce consensus candidates. It is a commendable option that would help in reducing rancour and bad blood among party members,” he stated.
The President, however, stressed that where consensus fails, all aspirants and delegates must conduct themselves peacefully and democratically during the contests.
“Where consensus fails, I urge us all to go into the primaries as brothers and sisters,” Tinubu said, adding that winners should avoid triumphalism while losers should accept outcomes in good faith.
“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,” he added.
President Tinubu also charged party leaders, governors, and officials to ensure fairness and provide a level playing field for all aspirants throughout the exercise.
“To the party leadership, our governors, and other leaders, I urge you to be fair and just,” he stated.
The President further emphasized the need for greater inclusion of women and youths in the political process, describing them as critical demographics whose participation must not be ignored.
“The inclusion of women and youth is dear to my heart,” he said. “We cannot afford to relegate the two significant demographics of our population.”
President Tinubu equally called on security agencies, especially the Police, to remain professional and avoid interference during the primaries.
“Your duties strictly centre on ensuring peaceful exercise. Nothing more,” he warned.
The APC primaries are scheduled to begin with the House of Representatives contests and will culminate in the presidential primaries slated for May 25, 2026.
