By Ibrahim Salaudeen, Lagos
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has described the ongoing 2026 All Progressives Congress (APC) primaries across the country as a strong reflection of internal democracy and grassroots political participation within the ruling party.
The President stated this on Saturday after participating in the APC presidential primaries at Ikoyi-Obalende Ward L2 in Lagos.
President Tinubu, who arrived at the venue alongside the First Lady, Senator 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; and former Minister of Finance, Wale Edun, among other party leaders.
Speaking after casting his vote, the President commended party members for their orderly conduct and commitment to democratic values, describing the exercise as peaceful and well-organised.
“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. It shows that we have internal democracy and it’s peaceful and well organised,” Tinubu said.
Commenting on the conduct of the primaries nationwide, the President expressed satisfaction with the processes carried out across the states.
“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,” he said.
“It has been done very well, and with this, you could rate democracy at a high level.”
Tinubu reiterated that the APC remains committed to transparent and inclusive democratic processes that allow party members at the grassroots level to freely choose their leaders and representatives.
According to him, active participation by party members remains the foundation for sustainable democratic development in the country.
The President 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 while reaffirming his administration’s commitment to good governance, democratic ideals and policies aimed at improving the welfare of citizens and strengthening political stability nationwide.
