APC PRIMARIES DEMONSTRATION OF INTERNAL DEMOCRACY, SAYS TINUBU

 

Says exercise deepened grassroots politics

President Bola Tinubu on Saturday described the 2026 All Progressives Congress (APC) primaries as a robust demonstration of internal democracy that has deepened grassroots participation across the country.

According to a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, and speaking after casting his vote at the Ikoyi-Obalende Ward L2 polling unit in Lagos, the President praised party members for the orderly conduct and enthusiasm that marked voting in various states.

He, who was accompanied to the venue by his wife, Oluremi Tinubu, and received by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Lagos APC chairman, Cornelius Ojelabi; Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Jumoke Oduwole; former Minister of Finance and coordinating minister of economy, Wale Edun; and other party leaders.

“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,” Mr Tinubu said. “It shows that we have internal democracy and it’s peaceful and well organised.”

On the nationwide conduct of the primaries, the president commended state governors and party officials for their roles in ensuring a credible process. “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.

Tinubu also lauded electoral officials, party leaders and security agencies for helping to keep the exercise peaceful and credible and urged Nigerians to continue supporting democratic institutions and national unity.

He reiterated his administration’s commitment to democratic ideals, good governance and policies aimed at improving the welfare of citizens while reinforcing political stability nationwide.