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 and a further boost to grassroots political participation within the ruling party.
The President made the remarks on Saturday after participating in the APC Presidential Primaries at Ikoyi-Obalende Ward L2 in Lagos, where he said the exercise underscored the party’s commitment to democratic principles and inclusive participation.
Tinubu, who arrived at the polling venue alongside the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, was received by top party leaders, including Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Lagos APC Chairman Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi, Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole, and former Minister of Finance, Wale Edun.
Commending party members for their peaceful conduct, enthusiasm, and commitment throughout the exercise, the President said the primaries had gone according to plan and reflected the strength of grassroots democracy.
“This is a demonstration of internal democracy, and it has been going 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 is peaceful and well organised,” Tinubu said.
Speaking on the conduct of the exercise across the states, the President expressed satisfaction with the level of coordination and organisation by governors and party officials.
“I am very satisfied that governors have done well in their various states, from the ward congresses to local government congresses, delegate accreditation, validation, membership registration, and certification of the electoral process. It has been done very well, and with this, you could rate democracy at a high level,” he added.
Tinubu reaffirmed that the APC remains committed to transparent and inclusive democratic processes that allow party members at the grassroots to freely choose their leaders and representatives.
He noted that active participation by members remains central to strengthening democratic institutions and sustaining political development in the country.
The President also praised electoral officials, party leaders, and security agencies for ensuring the primaries were conducted peacefully and credibly.
He urged Nigerians to continue supporting democratic institutions, national unity, and collective efforts aimed at political stability and good governance.
Tinubu further reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to democratic ideals and policies designed to improve the welfare of Nigerians while strengthening political stability across the country.