President Bola Tinubu has backed the consensus option ahead of the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary elections, warning party members against do-or-die politics and urging them to embrace sportsmanship. In a statement issued on Thursday, the president described the commencement of the primaries as a historic moment for the APC as it prepares for its fourth election cycle, noting that the party was founded on the principles of progressive politics, consensus democracy, sacrifice and selflessness.
Tinubu said the primaries, beginning with those for House of Representatives aspirants and culminating in the presidential primary on May 25, 2026, are a referendum on the party’s unity, resilience and strength.
The president said efforts by party leaders to produce consensus candidates in some areas are in line with the Electoral Act 2026 and the APC constitution, describing consensus as a commendable option capable of reducing rancour among party members. Tinubu urged party members to remain peaceful where consensus arrangements fail, and direct primaries become necessary, stating that an election is an essential ingredient of democracy.Â
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He also cautioned against divisive politics, saying politics should never be a zero sum game, and advised winners not to gloat while urging losers to accept defeat in good faith. Tinubu asked party leaders to ensure fairness and provide a level playing field for all aspirants, urging them to rise above sentiment to offer all aspirants a level playing field that guarantees participation without let or hindrance.
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