Tinubu Urges APC Aspirants To Avoid Do-Or-Die Politics Ahead Of Primaries

As the All Progressives Congress (APC) launches its nationwide primary elections in advance of the 2027 general elections, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has urged candidates and members to behave peacefully.

Tinubu called the start of the APC primaries a historic moment for the ruling party in a statement he personally signed on Thursday, pointing out that it is the party’s fourth election cycle since its founding.

“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.”

“I note the impressive progress made in this regard and encourage fellow party members to make the most of this window to ensure a seamless process and a more unified party.”

“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 ultimate winners are those who don’t choose to wreck the boat but rather work to prepare for another round. Our opponents are waiting for us to be against each other; we should disappoint them.”

“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.”

“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 that guarantees participation without let or hindrance.”

“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.

“We cannot afford to relegate the two significant demographics of our population.”

“Your duties strictly centre on ensuring peaceful exercise. Nothing more,” he warned.