On the eve of the All Progressives Congress (APC) nationwide primary elections, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has issued a comprehensive call for unity, sportsmanship, and fairness, describing the exercise as a “referendum” on the party’s strength and resilience.
In a signed statement released on May 14, 2026, the President reflected on the party’s journey as it enters its fourth election cycle, urging members to consolidate the principles of selflessness and progressive politics that formed the APC’s foundation.
The President confirmed that the internal electoral process will commence on Friday, May 15, 2026, starting with the House of Representatives primaries. The cycle is scheduled to culminate in the high-stakes Presidential Primaries on May 25, 2026.
According to the President, these elections are not merely about producing standard-bearers but are an opportunity to renew shared ideals and the bonds of party membership.
Addressing the ongoing efforts to minimize internal friction, President Tinubu commended party leaders who have initiated conversations to produce consensus candidates in line with the Electoral Act (2026) and the APC constitution.
“It is a commendable option that would help in reducing rancour and bad blood among party members,” Tinubu stated, noting “impressive progress” in this regard and encouraging members to utilize this window for a seamless process.
Where consensus cannot be reached, the President urged a “brotherly” approach to the contest, warning against “do-or-die” politics or conduct that could debase Nigeria’s democracy.
- To Contestants: He urged winners to avoid gloating and losers to take the outcome in their stride, noting that “the ultimate winners are those who don’t choose to wreck the boat.”
- To Party Leaders: He tasked winners and governors with extending “olive branches” to those who did not succeed, reminding them that politics should never be a zero-sum game.
- To The Umpires: The President issued a direct mandate to party leadership and governors to rise above sentiment and provide a level playing field for all aspirants.
Highlighting his personal priorities for the 2027 cycle, President Tinubu made a special appeal for the inclusion of women and youth. “We cannot afford to relegate the two significant demographics of our population,” he noted, urging voters and leaders to give them special consideration during the contest.
The President also issued a stern directive to the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to maintain strict professionalism. He warned them against acting as “interlopers,” clarifying that their duties are strictly centered on ensuring a peaceful exercise and “nothing more.”
Concluding his message, the President expressed his desire for a successful outing and looked forward to a unified front against the opposition. “Our opponents are waiting for us to be against each other; we should disappoint them,” he remarked, wishing all aspirants good luck ahead of the Friday polls.
