PRESIDENT Bola Tinubu has cautioned members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) against engaging in fighting and “do-or-die” politics as the party begins its nationwide primaries ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a statement personally signed today, the President called on aspirants, delegates and party leaders to conduct themselves peacefully while adhering to the principles of fairness, internal democracy and sportsmanship throughout the exercise.
Tinubu described the primaries which started with the House of Representatives contests and will conclude with the presidential primary on May 25, 2026 as vital to the future and unity of the ruling party.
According to him, politics should not be approached as a battle where one side must destroy the other, stressing that the era of “do-or-die” politics should remain in the past.
He encouraged party members to see the primaries as an avenue to strengthen unity within the APC rather than deepen divisions, adding that where consensus arrangements fail, contestants should still approach the process peacefully and as members of one political family.
The President further appealed to all participants, whether contestants or voters, to maintain peace and act in the overall interest of both the party and the country.
Tinubu also warned against actions capable of weakening democracy or creating disunity within the APC. He advised winners to avoid excessive celebrations and urged those who lose to accept the outcome in good faith and prepare for future opportunities.
He commended ongoing efforts by party leaders to produce consensus candidates in line with the Electoral Act and the APC constitution, noting that such arrangements could help reduce tension and unnecessary conflicts among party members.
The President equally called on governors and party leaders to ensure fairness by giving all aspirants equal opportunities during the primaries.
Speaking on inclusion, Tinubu appealed to party members and leaders to give greater consideration to women and youths seeking elective positions, describing their participation as important to the party’s growth.
He also warned the Police and other security agencies against interfering in the primaries beyond maintaining law and order, insisting that their role should be limited strictly to ensuring peaceful conduct during the exercise.
Tinubu expressed optimism that the APC would emerge stronger after the completion of the primaries and wished all aspirants success in the process.
