By Ayo Ayodele
President Bola Tinubu on Saturday described the nationwide 2026 primaries of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as a strong demonstration of internal democracy and grassroots political participation within the ruling party.
The President made the remarks after participating in the APC Presidential Primaries at Ikoyi-Obalende Ward L2 in Lagos, where he said the conduct of the exercise had further strengthened the democratic process in the country.
Tinubu, who arrived at the venue alongside the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, was received by the 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.
Commending party members for what he described as orderly conduct and commitment to democratic values, the President said the primaries reflected the APC’s dedication to inclusive participation.
“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,” Tinubu stated.
“It shows that we have internal democracy and it’s peaceful and well organised,” he added.
Speaking on the conduct of the exercise across the states, the President expressed satisfaction with the performance of governors and party officials in handling the various stages of the process.
“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 remained committed to transparent and inclusive democratic processes that allow party members at the grassroots to freely choose their leaders and representatives.
He stressed that grassroots participation remains essential for sustainable democratic development and political stability in the country.
The President also praised electoral officials, party leaders and security agencies for ensuring that the primaries were conducted peacefully and credibly nationwide.
He urged Nigerians to continue supporting democratic institutions and national unity while reaffirming his administration’s commitment to good governance and policies aimed at improving the welfare of citizens.