Peaceful APC primaries show strength of democracy — Tinubu

Stanley Ihedigbo

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Saturday described the conduct of the 2026 All Progressives Congress (APC) primaries across the country as a strong demonstration of internal democracy within the ruling party, saying the exercise has further strengthened grassroots political participation and democratic values.

The President made the remarks shortly after participating in the APC Presidential Primaries at Ikoyi-Obalende Ward L2 in Lagos State, where he commended party members for what he described as their orderly conduct, enthusiasm and commitment to democratic ideals.

President Tinubu, who arrived at the venue alongside the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, was received by Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Lagos APC Chairman Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi, Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment Jumoke Oduwole, former Minister of Finance Wale Edun and other senior party leaders.

Speaking after casting his vote, the President expressed satisfaction with the conduct of the primaries nationwide, describing the process as peaceful, transparent and well organised.

“This is a demonstration of internal democracy, and it has been going on very well according to plan. This is grassroots politics where every member of the party has the right to participate,” the President stated.

“It shows that we have internal democracy and it’s peaceful and well organised,” he added.

President Tinubu also praised APC governors and party officials across the states for ensuring smooth coordination of the electoral process from the ward level to the accreditation and validation stages.

According to him, the process reflected a high standard of democratic practice within the party.

“I am very satisfied that Governors have done well in their various states, from the ward congresses to Local Government congresses to the delegate accreditation, validation, membership registration and the certification of the electoral process. It has been done very well, and with this, you could rate democracy at a high level,” he said.

The President reiterated the ruling party’s commitment to transparent and inclusive democratic processes that allow party members at the grassroots to freely choose their leaders and representatives.

He stressed that active grassroots participation remains critical to sustainable democratic development and national political stability.

President Tinubu further commended electoral officials, party leaders and security agencies for ensuring the primaries were conducted peacefully and credibly across the federation.

He urged Nigerians to continue supporting democratic institutions, peaceful political engagement and national unity, while reaffirming his administration’s commitment to good governance and policies aimed at improving citizens’ welfare.

The President also assured Nigerians that his administration would continue to pursue democratic ideals and reforms designed to strengthen political stability and national development.

The APC primaries, held across various states, are part of preparations ahead of the 2027 general elections, with party members electing candidates and delegates through ward and local government congresses.