Tinubu warns APC Governors, leaders against candidate imposition ahead of Primaries

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has cautioned governors, the APC national secretariat, and state executives against imposing preferred candidates as the party begins its primary elections to select flagbearers for the 2027 general elections.

In a personally signed statement made available to State House Correspondents on Thursday, the President called for a level playing field for all aspirants and urged party leaders to ensure a transparent and peaceful process.

Tinubu’s warning comes amid reported tensions in several states over attempts by political leaders to push consensus arrangements in favour of selected aspirants, sparking resistance within party ranks.

The APC primaries commence with House of Representatives contests and will run through to the presidential primary scheduled for May 25, 2026.

According to the President, the primaries represent not just a routine electoral exercise but a critical test of the party’s unity and strength.

“The primary elections… are not mere exercises to produce our standard bearers. They are a referendum on our unity, resilience and strength as a party,” he said.

Tinubu acknowledged ongoing efforts by party stakeholders to adopt consensus arrangements where possible, describing the approach as a legitimate mechanism for reducing internal conflict.

He, however, stressed that where consensus fails, direct primaries must be embraced and conducted in a spirit of fairness and discipline.

“Where consensus fails, I urge us all to go into the primaries as brothers and sisters,” the President stated.

He warned against post-primary bitterness, urging winners not to celebrate in a way that humiliates opponents, while calling on those who lose to accept outcomes with sportsmanship.

“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.

Tinubu further directed party leaders, especially governors, to ensure fairness and equal opportunity for all aspirants, noting that internal democracy must be upheld.

He also emphasised the importance of inclusivity, urging delegates and party leaders to give special consideration to women and youth in the selection process.

The President also charged security agencies to remain neutral and strictly maintain order during the primaries, warning against interference.

Tinubu concluded by expressing optimism that the APC would emerge stronger from the process and urged aspirants to see the contest as a collective effort to strengthen the party ahead of the general elections.