*Urges members to show Party’s strenght
The President announced that the primary elections would start with House of Representatives aspirants and culminate in the presidential primaries scheduled for May 25, 2026. He emphasized that the exercise goes beyond selecting candidates, describing it as a test of the party’s unity, resilience, and collective strength.
By Chesa Chesa
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called for unity, fairness, and sportsmanship among members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the party begins its nationwide primaries ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a State House statement issued on Thursday, the President described the commencement of the primaries as a “historic moment” for the ruling party, noting that the APC is entering its fourth election cycle since its formation.
Tinubu expressed pride in the party’s evolution, attributing its endurance to its founding principles of progressive politics, consensus-building, and selfless service. He urged party members to consolidate on these values as the primaries begin.
The President announced that the primary elections would start with House of Representatives aspirants and culminate in the presidential primaries scheduled for May 25, 2026. He emphasized that the exercise goes beyond selecting candidates, describing it as a test of the party’s unity, resilience, and collective strength.
He commended ongoing efforts by party leaders to adopt consensus arrangements in line with the Electoral Act 2026 and the party’s constitution, noting that such an approach could help minimize internal conflicts. However, he maintained that where consensus is not achievable, members must approach the contests peacefully and with a spirit of brotherhood.
“Elections are an essential ingredient of democracy,” Tinubu stated, urging aspirants and delegates to conduct themselves responsibly and avoid actions that could undermine party cohesion.
The President cautioned winners against arrogance and encouraged those who lose to accept outcomes in good faith, stressing that the ultimate goal is the party’s success in the general elections. He also advised party leaders to reconcile aggrieved members by extending “olive branches” after the primaries.
Tinubu further called on governors and party officials to ensure a level playing field for all aspirants, stressing the importance of fairness and transparency in the process.
Highlighting inclusivity, the President appealed for greater participation of women and youths, describing them as critical demographics that must not be sidelined in the political process.
He also charged security agencies, particularly the police, to remain professional and limit their roles to maintaining peace during the exercise.
Tinubu concluded by wishing all aspirants success and expressing optimism about working with eventual candidates to secure victory for the APC in the forthcoming general elections.
