Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has warned aspirants seeking elective positions on the party’s platform against acts capable of undermining the integrity of the 2027 primary elections.
In a statement issued by Abimbola Tooki, his special adviser on media and information strategy, Yilwatda said offenders risk immediate suspension from the party.
The APC chairman spoke on Monday while addressing aspirants who recently participated in screening exercises conducted by various party committees.
The party is expected to commence its primary elections with the House of Representatives on May 15, followed by the Senate on May 18, state Houses of Assembly on May 20, governorship elections on May 21, and the presidential primary on May 23.
The statement said the APC leadership would not tolerate acts capable of disrupting the primaries.
“The leadership of the party would not tolerate any act capable of disrupting the smooth conduct of the primaries.
“Any aspirant or supporter found instigating violence, sponsoring unrest, engaging in anti-party activities, or attempting to undermine the integrity of the process would face severe disciplinary measures, including immediate suspension from the party.
“In every democratic contest, only one person will eventually emerge victorious. What is important is the spirit with which the process is approached.
“I urge all aspirants to display maturity, patriotism, and good sportsmanship by embracing the outcome of the primaries in the overall interest of the party and our democracy,” he said.
The APC chairman said aspirants should see themselves as ambassadors of the party.
He also commended President Bola Tinubu for what he described as his commitment to strengthening democratic institutions and internal party processes.
Yilwatda said Tinubu had devoted “significant energy, political goodwill, and leadership capacity” to building a stronger APC.
He urged party stakeholders to align with the president’s vision and avoid actions capable of creating division within the party.
“The Renewed Hope administration is laying a solid foundation for a stronger and more prosperous Nigeria,” he said.
“This is not the time for destructive politics or selfish interests that may put a dent in the remarkable progress that has been achieved.”
Yilwatda said the administration remained committed to building a resilient economy capable of achieving a $1 trillion economy through reforms and strategic investments.