The leadership of the All Progressives Congress has called on party members, aspirants, and stakeholders to embrace unity, fairness, and sportsmanship as the party begins its primary elections ahead of the 2027 general elections.In a message addressed to party faithful, the APC leadership described the moment as historic, noting that the party, founded a little over a decade ago, is now preparing for its fourth election cycle.
According to the statement, the party was established on the principles of progressive politics, consensus democracy, selflessness, and sacrifice — values it said have continued to strengthen the APC through successive elections.The party stressed that the forthcoming primaries, beginning with the House of Representatives contests and ending with the presidential primary scheduled for May 25, 2026, go beyond selecting candidates. It described the exercise as a test of the party’s unity, resilience, and collective strength.
The statement acknowledged ongoing consultations among party leaders and stakeholders aimed at producing consensus candidates in line with the provisions of the Electoral Act 2026 and the APC constitution. It noted that the consensus approach would help reduce internal disputes and promote harmony within the party.Party members were encouraged to maximize the opportunity for dialogue and peaceful agreement in order to ensure a smooth process and a more united political structure ahead of the general election.
However, the APC maintained that where consensus arrangements fail, aspirants and delegates should conduct themselves peacefully and democratically during the primaries.The party urged all contestants and voters to avoid actions capable of causing division, violence, or bitterness, emphasizing that politics should not be treated as a “do-or-die affair.”It further appealed to winners of the primaries to remain humble in victory, while encouraging those who may not emerge successful to accept the outcome in good faith and continue supporting the party.According to the statement, true party loyalty lies in preserving unity rather than creating internal crises after electoral contests.
The APC also advised victorious aspirants and party leaders at all levels to reconcile with aggrieved members and extend “olive branches” to those who may feel disappointed by the outcomes of the primaries.On fairness and transparency, the party charged governors, party executives, and leaders across the country to provide a level playing field for all aspirants, regardless of affiliation or influence.It stressed that although only one candidate can emerge for each position, every participant deserves a fair opportunity to contest without intimidation or manipulation.The party also emphasized the importance of youth and women inclusion in the political process, calling on delegates and leaders to give adequate consideration to both groups during the primaries.According to the APC, women and young people remain vital demographics whose participation is necessary for the growth and future of the party.
The statement further urged the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to maintain professionalism throughout the exercise and avoid interference beyond their constitutional responsibility of ensuring peaceful conduct.The APC concluded by wishing all aspirants success in the primaries and expressed optimism about working with victorious candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections.
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