‘Our Opponents Are Watching’: Tinubu Urges Peace, Unity as APC Primaries Begin Nationwide

By Emmanuel Kwada

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on all leaders and members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to uphold peace, unity, and fairness as the party commences its nationwide primary elections.

In a statement released from the State House on Thursday, May 14, 2026, President Tinubu described the primaries — which begin with House of Representatives aspirants on Friday and culminate in the presidential primaries on May 25, 2026 — as a critical test of the party’s unity and resilience.

The President noted that the APC, which he helped found, is now preparing for its fourth election cycle, describing it as a proud milestone for the party.

“We founded the All Progressives Congress (APC) on the firm principles of progressive politics, consensus democracy, and personal devotion and sacrifice,” the President said.

While commending efforts by party leaders to produce consensus candidates in line with the Electoral Act and the party’s constitution, President Tinubu urged members to embrace peaceful competition where consensus is not achieved.

“I urge us all to go into the primaries as brothers and sisters. All participants must keep the peace and be ready to play as sportsmen and women in the overall interest of the party and our country,” he said.

The President warned against rancorous conduct, stressing that winners should avoid gloating while losers should accept the outcome with sportsmanship and prepare for future opportunities. He also directed that olive branches be extended to all unsuccessful aspirants.

On inclusivity, President Tinubu made a strong appeal for greater participation of women and youth in the primaries.

“The inclusion of women and youth is dear to my heart. I appeal to voters in the primaries and leaders at all levels to give special consideration to our women and youth in the contest,” he added.

The President further cautioned security agencies to remain strictly professional, limiting their role to ensuring a peaceful exercise without interference.

He expressed confidence that the primaries would produce strong candidates who would lead the APC to victory in the 2027 general elections.

The statement comes as the ruling party gears up to select its candidates for the National Assembly, governorship, and presidential elections scheduled for 2027.