President Bola Tinubu has called on members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to embrace unity, consensus-building, and fair play as the party begins its nationwide primaries ahead of the 2026 general elections.
In a statement marking the start of the exercise, Tinubu described the primaries as a critical test of the party’s cohesion and resilience, stressing that internal harmony will determine its strength going into the general elections.
He noted that the process, which begins with House of Representatives primaries on May 15 and concludes with the presidential primary on May 25, should not be treated as a routine selection exercise but as a reflection of the party’s shared values and long-term political stability.
The president commended the use of consensus arrangements where possible under the Electoral Act and party constitution, describing it as a practical approach to reducing internal disputes and post-primary grievances.
Where consensus cannot be reached, he urged aspirants and delegates to conduct themselves with discipline and respect, emphasizing that competition should not degenerate into hostility or factionalism.
Tinubu further warned both winners and losers to act responsibly after the contests, stating that victory should not lead to arrogance, while defeat should be handled with maturity and continued loyalty to party ideals.
He stressed that party leaders at all levels must ensure fairness and equal opportunity for all aspirants, insisting that no contestant should be disadvantaged in the process.
According to him, the opposition is closely watching the APC’s internal dynamics, and any signs of division would weaken the party’s electoral prospects.
The APC primaries are expected to shape the party’s candidate lineup for the 2026 elections, setting the tone for what is anticipated to be a highly competitive political cycle in Nigeria.