Tinubu tells security agencies to avoid interference in APC primaries

President Bola Tinubu has cautioned members of the All Progressives Congress against infighting and “do or die” politics as the ruling party begins its nationwide primaries ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In a statement personally signed on Thursday to mark the commencement of the APC primaries, Tinubu urged aspirants, party leaders and delegates to conduct themselves peacefully and uphold the principles of internal democracy, fairness and sportsmanship.

The President described the primaries, which begin with contests for House of Representatives tickets and end with the presidential primary scheduled for 25 May 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,” Tinubu said.

He urged contestants to see the exercise 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, whether as contestants or voters, must keep the peace and be ready to act as sportsmen and women in the overall interest of the party and our country.”

Tinubu also warned against actions capable of undermining democracy and party unity, stressing that both winners and losers must conduct themselves responsibly after the exercise.

“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 said.

The President encouraged party leaders across the country to embrace consensus arrangements where possible, saying the approach could help reduce tension within the APC.

“I am aware that, in line with the provisions of the Electoral Act 2026 and our party 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.”

Tinubu also called on governors and party officials to ensure fairness by creating 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 said.

The President further appealed for greater participation of women and young people 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 added.

Tinubu equally warned 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,” he said.

The President wished all aspirants success and expressed optimism that the APC would emerge stronger after the primary elections.