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By Lizzy Chirkpi
President Bola Tinubu on Saturday participated in the All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential Direct Primary at his ward in Ikoyi, Lagos, declaring that democracy can only survive through active citizen participation, strong institutions, and grassroots political engagement.
The President, who voted alongside his wife, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, used the occasion to reaffirm confidence in the ruling APC, describing the party as “focused, organised and deeply grounded across Nigeria.”
In a statement shared on his official X account shortly after the exercise, Tinubu said the APC remained committed to nation-building and strengthening democratic institutions despite growing political tensions ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“Democracy is not sustained by noise, speculation, or borrowed platforms. It is sustained by citizens who show up, party members who believe, institutions that endure, the grassroots, and a political family rooted in the people,” the President stated.
He added that while opposition forces may be driven by grievances, the APC was concentrating on governance, service delivery, and consolidating democratic gains across the country.
“Others may gather around grievance. We gather around structure, service, and the work of nation-building,” Tinubu said.
The President further assured Nigerians that his administration and the APC would continue to pursue policies aimed at strengthening democracy and improving national development.
“Together, we will continue to renew hope, strengthen our democracy, and build a stronger Nigeria for all,” he added.
Saturday’s direct primary exercise forms part of the APC’s internal democratic process ahead of preparations for the 2027 elections, with party members across several states participating in ward-level voting and consultations.