President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on members of the All Progressives Congress to uphold unity, discipline and sportsmanship as the party’s nationwide primaries begin ahead of the 2026 general elections.
In a statement released to mark the commencement of the primaries, Tinubu described the exercise as a critical test of the APC’s cohesion and political strength.
According to the President, the primaries, which started with House of Representatives contests on May 15 and will conclude with the presidential primary on May 25, are “a referendum on our unity, resilience and strength as a party.”
He said the process presents an opportunity for party members to renew their commitment to the ideals and values upon which the APC was founded.
Tinubu praised ongoing efforts by party leaders to adopt consensus arrangements in line with the Electoral Act and the party constitution, describing consensus as a useful mechanism for reducing tension and internal disputes.
Where consensus arrangements fail, however, the President urged aspirants and delegates to conduct themselves peacefully and respect democratic principles.
“All participants in the primaries, as contestants or voters, must keep the peace and be ready to play as sportsmen and women in the overall interest of the party and our country,” he said.
Tinubu warned against divisive conduct capable of weakening the party, stressing that victory and defeat are natural outcomes in any political contest.
“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 added.
The President also urged victorious candidates and party leaders to reconcile with unsuccessful aspirants rather than deepen divisions within the party.
“Our opponents are waiting for us to be against each other; we should disappoint them,” Tinubu said, while rejecting what he described as “do-or-die politics.”
He directed governors, party executives and officials overseeing the primaries to ensure fairness and equal opportunities for all aspirants.
“You must rise above sentiment to offer all aspirants a level playing field that guarantees participation without let or hindrance,” the President stated.
Tinubu further appealed for greater inclusion of women and young people in the party’s leadership and electoral process, saying both groups remain vital to Nigeria’s future.
“The inclusion of women and youth is dear to my heart,” he said, urging party members to give them “special consideration” during the primaries.
The President also reminded security agencies, especially the Nigeria Police Force, to remain neutral and professional during the exercise.
“Your duties strictly centre on ensuring peaceful exercise. Nothing more,” he said.
Tinubu reaffirmed the APC’s founding principles of progressive politics, consensus-building and sacrifice, expressing confidence that the party would emerge stronger after the primaries and better positioned for future elections.
