President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Saturday declared the nationwide conduct of the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary elections a “high-level rating for Nigerian democracy,” praising the ruling party’s ability to maintain internal order, stability, and peaceful participation at the grassroots level ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The President made the remarks immediately after participating in the validation and voting exercise at his local constituency, Ikoyi-Obalende Ward L2 in Lagos State. Arriving alongside First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu, the President was received by a high-powered delegation including Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Lagos APC Chairman Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi, Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, and former Finance Minister Wale Edun.
The Power of the Grassroots
Addressing an enthusiastic crowd of party loyalists and journalists, President Tinubu expressed satisfaction with the reports emanating from various states regarding the primary processes, which are being held in compliance with the newly enacted Electoral Act 2026.
“This is a demonstration of internal democracy, and it has been going on very well according to plan,” President Tinubu stated, visibly energized by the large turnout. “This is grassroots politics where every member of the party has the right to participate. It shows that we have internal democracy, and it is peaceful and well organized.”
The President emphasized that the foundation of any sustainable democratic development relies heavily on giving the ordinary party faithful at the ward level the unhindered freedom to choose their representatives. He noted that the massive turnout and orderly conduct across the country did not surprise him but rather challenged his administration to accelerate its socio-economic developmental programs.
“I’m just excited; they challenge me to do more,” the President remarked when questioned about the enthusiastic show of solidarity from the party’s rank and file.
Executive Commendation for Governors
A central pillar of the smooth conduct of the exercise, according to the President, was the administrative discipline demonstrated by the various state executives. Under the current APC framework, state governors and regional party structures were tasked with absolute oversight over membership validation, delegate accreditation, and local government congresses.
“I am very satisfied that Governors have done well in their various states,” Tinubu noted. “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.”
The President also extended his appreciation to the independent electoral monitors, party administrators, and security agencies for maintaining the peace throughout the highly competitive internal contests. He urged all members of the party, particularly those who did not emerge victorious in their respective primary bids, to close ranks and view the outcome as a victory for the collective family rather than an individual defeat.
With the primary window officially winding down, the APC appears focused on projecting a unified front designed to neutralize opposition criticisms and solidify its institutional footprint before the official general election campaigns kick off later in the year.
