President says nationwide exercise deepened grassroots participation and party organization_
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has described the 2026 All Progressives Congress [APC] primaries as a clear demonstration of internal democracy within the ruling party, saying the process has strengthened grassroots politics across the country.
Speaking on Saturday after voting in the APC Presidential Primaries at Ikoyi-Obalende Ward L2 in Lagos, Tinubu said the conduct of the primaries showed that party members at all levels were being given a genuine voice in choosing candidates.
“This is a demonstration of internal democracy, and it has been going on very well according to plan. This is grassroots politics where every member of the party has the right to participate,” the President said. “It shows that we have internal democracy and it’s peaceful and well organised.”
Tinubu arrived at the polling venue alongside his wife, Senator Oluremi Tinubu. They were received by Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Lagos APC Chairman Pastor Conerlius Ojelabi, Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, and former Minister of Finance Wale Edun, among other party leaders.
The President commended APC members for their orderly conduct and enthusiasm, and praised governors for their handling of the process from ward congresses through delegate accreditation and membership validation.
“I am very satisfied that Governors have done well in their various states, 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, and with this, you could rate democracy at a high level,” he said.
Tinubu reiterated that the APC remains committed to transparent and inclusive processes that allow grassroots members to freely choose their leaders and representatives. He said that involvement at the base of the party is the foundation for sustainable democratic development.
He also thanked electoral officials, party leaders, and security agencies for ensuring the exercise was conducted peacefully and credibly, and 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 nationwide.
