APC Primaries: Our opponents are waiting for us to clash, we should disappoint them —Tinubu declares

By Ismail Azeez

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to embrace unity, fairness, and sportsmanship as the party commences its nationwide primary elections ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In a statement issued on Thursday, President Tinubu described the commencement of the primaries as a historic moment for the ruling party, noting that the APC is preparing for its fourth election cycle since its formation.

The President emphasized that the APC was founded on the principles of progressive politics, consensus democracy, personal devotion, and sacrifice.

He stressed that the party must continue to uphold these ideals throughout the primary process.

According to him, the primaries which began with the House of Representatives contests and will conclude with the presidential primary on May 25, 2026 are not merely exercises to select candidates but a significant test of the party’s unity, resilience, and strength.

“Election is an essential ingredient of democracy. Where consensus fails, I urge us all to go into the primaries as brothers and sisters. All participants in the primaries, whether 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,” the President stated.

He warned that the party cannot afford rancorous conduct or the debasement of democratic unity.

Acknowledging that every contest produces a winner and a loser, he urged victors to refrain from gloating and encouraged those who do not succeed to take the results in stride.

He noted that the ultimate winners are those who choose not to wreck the boat but instead work toward future opportunities.

President Tinubu specifically cautioned that political opponents are watching for signs of internal friction.

“Our opponents are waiting for us to be against each other; we should disappoint them,” he said.

He further urged party leaders and winners to extend olive branches to unsuccessful aspirants, advocating for a departure from the do-or-die politics of the past.

The President also addressed party leadership and governors, insisting on the provision of a level playing field for all aspirants to ensure a fair contest.

He made a special appeal for the inclusion of women and youth, describing them as significant demographics that must not be relegated.

He further charged the Police and other security agencies to maintain professionalism, stressing that their role is strictly limited to ensuring a peaceful exercise without interloping in the political process.