President urges aspirants to embrace sportsmanship and warns against divisive conduct as the ruling party enters its fourth electoral cycle since formation
By: Tunji Okunlola
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to uphold unity, discipline, and internal democracy as the party launches its nationwide primary elections ahead of the 2026 general election cycle.
In a statement to mark the commencement of the primaries, President Tinubu described the exercise as a “historic moment” for the ruling party, noting that it marks the APC’s fourth electoral cycle since its formation. He stressed that the party was founded on the principles of progressive politics, consensus-building, and selfless service; values he said must continue to guide its conduct throughout the process.
“The primary elections, kicking off with those for House of Representatives aspirants tomorrow and culminating in the presidential primaries on May 25, 2026, are not mere exercises to produce our standard bearers,” the President said. “They are a referendum on our unity, resilience and strength as a party.”
Tinubu acknowledged ongoing efforts to produce consensus candidates, describing the approach as a welcome step that could reduce internal friction. However, he cautioned that where consensus is not reached, the process must be conducted with fairness and transparency. He urged all aspirants to embrace the spirit of sportsmanship and warned that divisive conduct would not be tolerated.
“We cannot afford rancorous conduct or the debasement of our democracy and party unity,” he said. “In every contest, there will be a winner and a loser.”
The President urged primary winners to reach out to defeated opponents, insisting that politics must not become a “do-or-die affair” or a zero-sum game. He also charged party leaders, state governors, and officials to guarantee a level playing field for all aspirants and to uphold the integrity of the process.
Tinubu placed particular emphasis on the inclusion of women and young people, calling for their meaningful participation in the party’s candidate selection process.
“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.”
On the question of security, the President advised the Nigeria Police and other security agencies to remain strictly professional and to confine their role to maintaining peaceful conditions during the primaries.
Tinubu concluded by wishing all aspirants success, expressing confidence that a credible and orderly process would strengthen the APC ahead of the general elections.
Tags: #presidentbolaahmedtinubu #apc #unity