President has urged members and aspirants of the All Progressives Congress to conduct themselves peacefully and avoid actions capable of causing division as the party’s nationwide primaries commence.
In a statement issued on Thursday ahead of the House of Representatives primaries, Tinubu described the exercise as a major test of the APC’s unity and strength ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The President warned party members against engaging in bitter political battles, stressing that such behaviour would only benefit opposition parties. He advised winners not to boast after victory and encouraged those who lose to accept the outcome in good faith.
According to him, politics should not be treated as a “do-or-die” affair, adding that every successful candidate represents the collective interest of the party.
Tinubu also praised ongoing efforts by party leaders to adopt consensus arrangements where possible, saying the approach could help reduce tension and disagreements among aspirants.
However, he maintained that where consensus fails, party members must embrace discipline and sportsmanship throughout the process.
The President further directed governors and party leaders to provide a fair and transparent environment for all contestants, insisting that aspirants must be allowed to participate without intimidation or bias.
He added that unsuccessful aspirants who feel dissatisfied with the process should channel their grievances through the party’s redress mechanisms rather than create unrest within the APC.
Tinubu also appealed for greater inclusion of women and youths in the primaries, describing both groups as critical to Nigeria’s political future.
In addition, he warned security agencies deployed for the exercise to remain neutral and focus strictly on maintaining law and order during the primaries.
The APC primaries, which begin with contests for House of Representatives tickets, are expected to continue until the presidential primary scheduled for May 25, 2026.
The exercise is being conducted under the Electoral Act 2026, which shortened the election notice period from 360 days to 300 days ahead of the 2027 polls.
