President urges unity, fairness and sportsmanship as APC nationwide primaries kick off
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has issued a strong warning to members of the All Progressives Congress (APC), cautioning against violence, bitterness and “do-or-die” politics as the ruling party begins nationwide primaries ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a personally signed statement, Tinubu urged party aspirants, delegates and leaders to uphold peace, fairness and internal democracy throughout the exercise. He stressed that politics should not become a desperate battle capable of destroying party unity or democratic values.
The President described the APC primaries as a defining moment for the future of the party, warning contestants against actions capable of creating division within the ruling camp. Tinubu also advised winners not to mock defeated opponents, while urging losers to accept outcomes in good faith and remain loyal to the party.
His comments come amid rising political tension and intense lobbying within the APC as aspirants scramble for tickets ahead of 2027. There have already been reports of internal disagreements, complaints over fairness and growing fears of factional battles in some states.
Tinubu further encouraged party leaders to embrace consensus arrangements where possible in order to reduce rancour and avoid unnecessary political crises. He also appealed for greater inclusion of women and youths in the political process, describing their participation as essential to the party’s future.
Political observers say the President’s warning may be an attempt to calm growing tensions within the ruling party as Nigeria gradually enters another heated election cycle. With opposition parties also repositioning ahead of 2027, analysts believe the APC primaries could shape the country’s political direction in the coming months.