Fresh political tensions are emerging within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) as President Bola Tinubu calls for unity and warns against do-or-die politics ahead of the party’s 2027 primaries.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the president endorsed the use of consensus candidates where necessary, describing it as a lawful option recognised by the Electoral Act and the APC constitution, adding that such arrangements could help reduce internal disputes and strengthen party unity.
“We founded the All Progressives Congress on the firm principles of progressive politics, consensus democracy, and personal devotion and sacrifice.
“This principle of selflessness and devotion has seen us go through each election cycle and come out firmer together. We must consolidate on it as we go into the primaries tomorrow”,Tinubu said.
He, however, urged party members to remain calm and orderly in areas where direct primaries may be conducted, warning against divisive politics and acts capable of undermining the party. He explained that the exercise, which will begin with House of Representatives contests and conclude with the presidential primary scheduled for May 25, 2026, carries deeper political significance beyond nominations.
Tinubu added that the primaries present an opportunity for members to reaffirm shared values and strengthen the ideals that hold the party together ahead of future elections.
He further advised winners to remain humble in victory and encouraged unsuccessful aspirants to accept the outcome peacefully in the interest of party unity. He also appealed for greater inclusion of women and youths in the party’s political process.
