Tinubu warns APC against ‘Do-or-Die Politics’ ahead of Primaries

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

President Bola Tinubu has warned members of the ruling All Progressives Congress against divisive politics, violence and bitterness ahead of the party’s nationwide primaries, urging aspirants and party leaders to embrace consensus, fairness and sportsmanship in the overall interest of party unity.

Tinubu, in a statement released on Thursday ahead of the commencement of the APC primaries nationwide, described the exercise as a critical test of the party’s unity, resilience and democratic values as it prepares for another electoral cycle.

The President said the APC, founded on the principles of progressive politics, consensus democracy and sacrifice, must consolidate on those ideals as the primaries begin across the country.

“We founded the All Progressives Congress on the firm principles of progressive politics, consensus democracy, and personal devotion and sacrifice,” Tinubu said.

“This principle of selflessness and devotion has seen us go through each election cycle and come out firmer together. We must consolidate on it as we go into the primaries tomorrow.”

Tinubu noted that the primaries, which begin with the House of Representatives contests and culminate in the presidential primary scheduled for May 25, 2026, go beyond the selection of candidates.

According to him, the exercise represents “a referendum on our unity, resilience and strength as a party” and offers an opportunity to renew the shared ideals binding members together.

The President openly backed ongoing moves by party leaders to adopt consensus arrangements in line with the Electoral Act and the APC constitution, describing the option as a practical means of reducing internal rancour and preserving party cohesion.

“I am aware that, in line with the provisions of the Electoral Act (2026) and our party’s constitution, leaders at various levels have initiated conversations to produce consensus candidates,” he stated.

“It is a commendable option that would help in reducing rancour and bad blood among party members.”

Tinubu, however, stressed that where consensus fails, aspirants and delegates must conduct themselves peacefully and democratically during the primaries.

“Election is an essential ingredient of democracy. Where consensus fails, I urge us all to go into the primaries as brothers and sisters,” he said.

“All participants in the primaries, as contestants or voters, must keep the peace and be ready to play as sportsmen and women in the overall interest of the party and our country.”

The President warned against “rancorous conduct” and the return of “do-or-die politics,” insisting that political contests should not become destructive battles capable of undermining democracy and party unity.

“We cannot afford rancorous conduct or the debasement of our democracy and party unity,” Tinubu declared.

“We should not play the politics of old; the do-or-die politics that we have put behind us. Politics should never be a zero-sum game.”

He urged victorious aspirants not to mock defeated opponents, while encouraging losers to accept outcomes in good faith and prepare for future opportunities.

“In every contest, there will be a winner and a loser. I urge the winners not to gloat in victory and the losers to show sportsmanship by taking things in their stride and preparing for another time,” he said.

“The ultimate winners are those who don’t choose to wreck the boat but rather work to prepare for another round. Our opponents are waiting for us to be against each other; we should disappoint them.”

Tinubu also directed party leaders at all levels, particularly governors, to ensure fairness and equal opportunities for all aspirants.

“To the party leadership, our governors, and other leaders, I urge you to be fair and just,” he said.

“You must rise above sentiment to offer all aspirants a level playing field that guarantees participation without let or hindrance.”

The President further appealed for greater inclusion of women and youths in the party’s political process, describing both demographics as critical to Nigeria’s future.

“The inclusion of women and youth is dear to my heart,” Tinubu stated.

“I appeal to voters in the primaries and leaders at all levels to give special consideration to our women and youth in the contest. We cannot afford to relegate the two significant demographics of our population.”

Tinubu also warned security agencies against interfering in the party’s internal democratic exercise, insisting that their role must be limited strictly to maintaining peace and order.

“The Police and other security agencies must remain professional and avoid acting as interlopers during this exercise,” he warned.

“Your duties strictly centre on ensuring peaceful exercise. Nothing more.”

The President expressed optimism that the APC would emerge stronger after the primaries and pledged to work closely with victorious candidates ahead of the general elections.