Bola Ahmed Tinubu has cautioned members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) against infighting and “do-or-die” politics as the party begins its nationwide primaries ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a statement personally signed on Thursday marking the commencement of the primaries, Tinubu urged aspirants, delegates, and party leaders to conduct themselves peacefully and uphold internal democracy, fairness, and sportsmanship throughout the process.
The primaries, which will begin with House of Representatives aspirants and conclude with the presidential primary on May 25, 2026, are seen as a critical test of unity within the ruling party.
“We should not play the politics of old; the do-or-die politics that we have put behind us. Politics should never be a zero-sum game,” Tinubu said.
He emphasized that the exercise should strengthen party cohesion rather than deepen divisions, urging contestants to see themselves as “brothers and sisters” even in competition.
Tinubu added that while elections are central to democracy, all participants must maintain peace and demonstrate sportsmanship, whether as winners or losers.
“In every contest, there will be a winner and a loser. I urge the winners not to gloat in victory and the losers to show sportsmanship by taking things in their stride,” he stated.
The President also encouraged consensus-building where possible, noting that discussions among party leaders and governors could help reduce tensions and limit internal conflict.
He referenced provisions of the Electoral Act (2026) and the party constitution, which allow for consensus candidates as a legitimate pathway for selection.
According to him, such arrangements could help reduce “rancour and bad blood” within the party ahead of the elections.
Tinubu further called on governors and party leaders to ensure fairness and provide a level playing field for all aspirants, stressing the importance of credible and transparent primaries.
He also highlighted the need for greater inclusion of women and young people in the political process, describing their participation as a priority for his administration.
Security agencies, including the police, were also warned to limit their role to maintaining order during the primaries, without interfering in the political process.
“You duties strictly centre on ensuring peaceful exercise. Nothing more,” he said.
The President expressed optimism that the APC would emerge stronger and more united after the completion of the primaries.
