President Bola Tinubu has called on members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to embrace unity, consensus and internal democracy as the party begins its nationwide primaries ahead of the 2027 general elections. The President’s appeal comes amid rising competition, lobbying and growing political tension surrounding the ongoing APC primaries consensus discussions across several states.
Tinubu urged party members and aspirants to avoid actions capable of creating division within the ruling party, stressing the need for sportsmanship and mutual respect during the selection process. The President’s message was conveyed as party stakeholders intensified consultations over consensus arrangements and delegate-based contests in different states.
According to Vanguard, Tinubu warned against “rancorous conduct” that could weaken the APC ahead of the elections. He emphasized that all aspirants should place party unity above personal ambition and support transparent procedures throughout the primaries. The President also encouraged members dissatisfied with outcomes to utilise internal mechanisms for resolving disputes.
The growing debate over APC primaries consensus has generated mixed reactions among party stakeholders nationwide. While some leaders support consensus candidacies as a strategy to reduce internal conflict and strengthen cohesion, others insist that competitive primaries remain necessary for fairness and broader participation.
Political activities across several states have intensified as aspirants continue consultations with delegates, governors and party executives. Reports from different APC chapters indicate that negotiations are ongoing in areas where multiple aspirants are contesting for governorship, senatorial and House of Representatives tickets.
The President’s intervention comes at a time when concerns over candidate imposition and internal democracy are receiving increasing attention within the party. Some stakeholders have called for transparent processes capable of strengthening public confidence in the APC’s internal structures ahead of the elections.
Observers note that the APC primaries consensus approach has historically been used by political parties to manage internal competition and minimise post-primary disputes. However, disagreements over its implementation have also triggered legal challenges and defections in previous election cycles.
Tinubu’s appeal for fair play is also viewed as part of broader efforts to maintain party stability as opposition parties intensify coalition discussions and candidate positioning ahead of the 2027 elections. Analysts say internal cohesion within major parties may significantly influence electoral preparations in the coming months.
The APC leadership is expected to continue engagements with aspirants and stakeholders as screening, delegate accreditation and primary elections progress across the country. Party officials have maintained that all processes will be conducted in accordance with party guidelines and electoral regulations.
