…Warns Against ‘Do-or-Die’ Politics
President Bola Tinubu has endorsed the consensus option ahead of the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary elections, cautioning party members against engaging in “do-or-die” politics.
In a statement issued on Thursday, Tinubu described the commencement of the primaries as a defining moment for the APC as it prepares for its fourth election cycle.
“We founded the All Progressives Congress (APC) on the firm principles of progressive politics, consensus democracy, and personal devotion and sacrifice,” he said.
The President said the primary elections, scheduled to begin with House of Representatives contests and end with the presidential primary on 25 May 2026 would test the party’s unity.
“The primary elections, kicking off with those for House of Representatives aspirants tomorrow and culminating in the presidential primaries on May 25, 2026, are not mere exercises to produce our standard bearers,” he said. “They are a referendum on our unity, resilience and strength as a party.”
Tinubu noted that efforts by party leaders to adopt consensus candidates in some areas were consistent with provisions of the Electoral Act 2026 and the APC constitution.
He described consensus as a practical approach to reducing internal tensions.
“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,” he said.
The President, however, urged members to remain peaceful where consensus arrangements fail and direct primaries become necessary.
“Election is an essential ingredient of democracy. Where consensus fails, I urge us all to go into the primaries as brothers and sisters,” he said. “All participants in the primaries, as contestants or voters, must keep the peace and be ready to play as sportsmen and women in the overall interest of the party and our country.”
Tinubu warned against divisive and desperate politics, stressing that such practices have no place in the party.
“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,” he said.
He advised winners to be magnanimous in victory and urged losers to accept outcomes in good faith.
“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 President also called on party leaders, including governors, to ensure fairness and provide a level playing field for all aspirants.
“To the party leadership, our governors, and other leaders, I urge you to be fair and just,” he said. “You must rise above sentiment to offer all aspirants a level playing field that guarantees participation without let or hindrance.”
Tinubu further appealed for greater inclusion of women and youths in the primaries.
“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.
He also urged the police and other security agencies to act professionally during the exercise, saying “Lastly, the police and other security agencies must remain professional and avoid acting as interlopers during this exercise. Your duties strictly centre on ensuring peaceful exercise. Nothing more.”
