President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has cautioned members of the ruling All Progressives Congress against engaging in 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, the President called on aspirants, party leaders and delegates to conduct themselves peacefully and uphold the principles of internal democracy, fairness and sportsmanship throughout the exercise.
Tinubu described the primaries — which commence with the House of Representatives contests and conclude with the presidential primary scheduled for May 25, 2026 — as critical to the unity and future of the 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,” the President stated.
He urged contestants to view the primaries as an opportunity to strengthen party cohesion rather than deepen divisions.
“Election is an essential ingredient of democracy. Where consensus fails, I urge us all to go into the primaries as brothers and sisters,” he said.
“All participants in the primaries, as contestants or voters, must keep the peace and be ready to play as sportsmen and women in the overall interest of the party and our country.”
The President also warned against actions capable of undermining democracy and party unity, stressing that both winners and losers must demonstrate maturity during and after the contests.
“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 and preparing for another time,” he added.
Tinubu encouraged party leaders across the country to adopt consensus arrangements where possible, noting that such measures could help minimise tension and rancour among party members.
“I am aware that, in line with the provisions of the Electoral Act (2026) and our party’s constitution, leaders at various levels have initiated conversations to produce consensus candidates,” he said.
“It is a commendable option that would help in reducing rancour and bad blood among party members.”
The President further appealed to APC leaders and governors to ensure fairness by providing a level playing field for all aspirants.
“To the party leadership, our governors, and other leaders, I urge you to be fair and just. You must rise above sentiment to offer all aspirants a level playing field,” he stated.
Tinubu also advocated greater inclusion of women and youths in the party’s political process.
“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 said.
He equally cautioned the Police and other security agencies against interfering in the primaries beyond maintaining law and order.
“Your duties strictly centre on ensuring peaceful exercise. Nothing more,” the President warned.
Tinubu wished all aspirants success and expressed optimism that the APC would emerge stronger and more united after the primaries.
By Chief Edet Isong