President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has described the conduct of the 2026 All Progressives Congress (APC) primaries across the country as a strong reflection of internal democracy within the ruling party, saying the exercise has further strengthened grassroots political participation and democratic culture in Nigeria.
President Tinubu stated this on Saturday 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 peaceful, orderly and transparent conduct throughout the process.
The President, 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, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, former Minister of Finance, Wale Edun, and other party leaders.
Speaking after casting his vote, President Tinubu said the primaries had demonstrated the APC’s commitment to democratic principles and inclusive participation at the grassroots level.
“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.
“It shows that we have internal democracy and it’s peaceful and well organised,” the President said.
President Tinubu also expressed satisfaction with the conduct of the exercise across various states of the federation, commending governors and party officials for ensuring proper coordination from ward congresses to delegate accreditation and membership validation.
“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 stated.
The President reiterated that the APC remained committed to transparent and inclusive democratic processes that allow party members at the grassroots to freely participate in selecting leaders and representatives.
According to him, grassroots participation remains essential to sustaining democratic development and strengthening public confidence in political institutions.
President Tinubu further praised electoral officials, party leaders and security agencies for ensuring the primaries were conducted peacefully and credibly across the country.
He urged Nigerians to continue supporting democratic institutions, national unity and peaceful political participation as the country continues to deepen its democratic journey.
The President also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to democratic governance, political stability and policies aimed at improving the welfare of Nigerians.
The APC primaries form part of preparations ahead of the 2027 general elections, with the ruling party seeking to consolidate its internal structures and strengthen grassroots mobilisation nationwide.
The statement was issued by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga.
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