President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has issued a stirring call for unity, discipline, and “progressive politics” as the All Progressives Congress (APC) begins its nationwide primary elections tomorrow.
In a formal statement released from the State House on Thursday, 14th May 2026, the President characterised the upcoming internal polls as more than a mere selection process, describing them instead as a “referendum on the unity, resilience, and strength” of the party as it enters its fourth election cycle.
Acknowledging the inherent tensions of internal contests, President Tinubu lauded the efforts of party leaders who have initiated dialogues to produce consensus candidates in accordance with the Electoral Act (2026). He described consensus as a “commendable option” capable of reducing “rancour and bad blood” among the rank and file.
However, where such agreements prove elusive, the President urged a spirit of fraternal competition.
“Where consensus fails, I urge us all to go into the primaries as brothers and sisters,” the President stated. “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… Our opponents are waiting for us to be against each other; we should disappoint them.”
The President issued a direct mandate to party governors, the National Working Committee, and other stakeholders to ensure a “level playing field.” He emphasised that justice and fairness are paramount to maintaining party cohesion, insisting that even those who do not emerge victorious must leave the process with the “satisfaction of a fair contest.”
Furthermore, President Tinubu placed a significant emphasis on demographic representation, making a pointed appeal for the inclusion of women and the youth.
“We cannot afford to relegate the two significant demographics of our population,” he noted, urging voters and leaders to give “special consideration” to these groups during the selection of standard-bearers.
Addressing the role of the state during the exercise, the Commander-in-Chief delivered a stern directive to the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies. He warned against any form of interference or partisanship, stating that their duties are strictly confined to “ensuring a peaceful exercise.”
The primary season officially commences tomorrow, Friday, 15th May, with the selection of candidates for the House of Representatives. The process is scheduled to culminate in the high-stakes Presidential Primary on 25th May 2026.
Concluding his address, the President reminded aspirants that politics should never be a “zero-sum game” and encouraged those with grievances to seek redress through the party’s established internal committees rather than “wrecking the boat.”
“The party we formed just like yesterday is gearing up for its fourth election cycle,” Tinubu remarked with pride. “Any candidate that wins does so for all of us as a party.”
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