Dare Babalola
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Saturday described the ongoing 2026 All Progressives Congress primaries across the country as a strong reflection of internal democracy within the ruling party.
The President stated this after participating in the APC presidential primaries at Ikoyi-Obalende Ward L2 in Lagos, according to a statement issued on Saturday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
Tinubu said the exercise had further strengthened grassroots participation in the democratic process.
The President, who arrived at the venue alongside First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, 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.
Speaking after casting his vote, Tinubu praised party members for their peaceful conduct and commitment to democratic principles throughout the exercise.
“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,” he added.
Tinubu also expressed satisfaction with the conduct of the primaries across different states, commending governors and party officials for ensuring smooth coordination of the process.
“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 stated.
The President reiterated the APC’s commitment to transparent and inclusive democratic processes, stressing that grassroots participation remains essential to sustaining democratic development in the country.
He also commended electoral officials, party leaders, and security agencies for ensuring that the primaries were conducted peacefully and credibly nationwide.
Tinubu further reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to democratic governance, political stability, and policies aimed at improving the welfare of Nigerians.
