APC threatens to impose sanctions on presidential candidates for primary election violations

The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Nentawe Yilwatda, has warned party candidates against actions that could disrupt the upcoming primary elections, and warned that anyone found to be inciting violence or engaging in anti-party acts could face immediate suspension.

In a statement issued on Monday through Special Adviser on Media and Information Strategy, Abimbola Tooki, Yilwatda stressed that the party leadership would not condone behavior that could damage the credibility of the exercise.

According to the statement, “the party leadership will not tolerate any actions that could disrupt the smooth running of the primaries, noting that any candidate or supporter found to be inciting violence, sponsoring riots, engaging in anti-party activities, or attempting to undermine the integrity of the process will face severe disciplinary action, including immediate suspension from the party.”

The APC chairman noted that the ruling party had built a national reputation for organization and political stability, adding that personal ambition should not supersede party unity or the democratic fabric of the country.

“In every democratic contestation, only one person will emerge as the winner. What is important is the spirit used in the process. I encourage all candidates to show maturity, patriotism and good sportsmanship by embracing the results of the primary election in the overall interest of the party and our democracy,” he said.

He further urged the candidates to act responsibly during the primary election process, and reminded them that their actions would reflect directly on the image and values ​​of the APC.

Yilwatda also praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as ongoing efforts to strengthen the party’s democratic institutions and internal structures, while calling on party stakeholders to support the government’s political direction.

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“The Renewed Hope administration is laying a strong foundation for a stronger and more prosperous Nigeria. This is not the time for destructive politics or selfish interests that could hamper the extraordinary progress that has been achieved,” he said.

The APC chairman highlighted some of the achievements of the Tinubu administration, including investment in road infrastructure in six geopolitical zones, railway construction, port rehabilitation, reforms in the energy sector, agricultural interventions, and targeted programs to support youth and small businesses through credit facilities and empowerment schemes.

He added that ongoing reforms in sectors such as solid minerals, oil and gas, education, healthcare and technology will provide long-term economic benefits to Nigerians.

“The infrastructure revolution currently underway under the leadership of President Tinubu will have a far-reaching impact on economic productivity, job creation, market access and national competitiveness. This is a strategic investment that will transform society and strengthen the country’s economic foundation,” said Yilwatda.

He reiterated the commitment of the APC leadership to justice, inclusion and party cohesion, and assured Nigerians that the ruling party will continue to focus on governance, development and national progress.