President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has described the conduct of the 2026 All Progressives Congress primaries nationwide as a strong demonstration of internal democracy within the ruling party.
Tinubu spoke on Saturday after participating in the APC presidential primary at Ikoyi-Obalende Ward L2 in Lagos.
The President arrived at the venue with his wife, Senator Oluremi Tinubu. He 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.
Tinubu commended APC members for their orderly conduct, enthusiasm and commitment to democratic values during the exercise.
“This is a demonstration of internal democracy, and it has been going on very well according to plan,” he said.
“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.”
Speaking on the conduct of the primaries across the country, Tinubu said he was satisfied with the reports from the states, adding that party structures had followed the required processes from the wards to the local government level.
“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 the certification of the electoral process,” he said.
“It has been done very well, and with this, you could rate democracy at a high level.”
The President said the APC remained committed to transparent and inclusive democratic processes that allow party members at the grassroots to freely choose their leaders and representatives.
He said grassroots participation remained central to sustainable democratic development.
Tinubu also praised electoral officials, party leaders and security agencies for ensuring that the exercise was conducted peacefully and credibly.
He urged Nigerians to continue supporting democratic institutions and national unity.
The President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to democratic ideals, good governance and policies aimed at improving the welfare of Nigerians while strengthening political stability across the country.
The statement was issued by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, on Saturday, May 23, 2026.
