President Bola Ahmed Tinubu said the All Progressives Congress (APC) primaries demonstrate internal democracy and expressed satisfaction with the efforts of governors [1, 2].
The president's endorsement of the process suggests a push for stability and legitimacy within the ruling party as it selects candidates for upcoming roles. By framing the elections as democratic, the administration seeks to project an image of transparency and party unity.
Speaking Saturday at the Ikoyi-Obalende Ward L2 in Lagos, Tinubu said the conduct of the 2026 APC primaries nationwide was a strong demonstration of internal democracy within the ruling party [1, 2]. He said he was satisfied with the actions taken by the governors to ensure the process functioned correctly [1, 2].
"APC primaries demonstrate internal democracy, I am satisfied with what governors have done," Tinubu said [1].
The president's presence at the local ward level in Lagos underscores the importance of grassroots engagement in the party's electoral strategy. This focus on internal party mechanisms is intended to minimize friction and prevent legal challenges that often follow primary contests in Nigeria.
Tinubu said the nationwide execution of the primaries reflects a commitment to the party's democratic values [2]. He said the governors played roles in managing the exercises, suggesting that their leadership contributed to the perceived success of the event [1].
“APC primaries demonstrate internal democracy, I am satisfied with what governors have done.”
This public endorsement by the president serves to validate the legitimacy of the primary winners and reinforces the influence of state governors within the APC hierarchy. By emphasizing 'internal democracy,' the presidency is attempting to preempt accusations of candidate imposition, which has historically been a point of contention and litigation within Nigerian political parties.
