Governorship aspirant of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State, Mr. Tonye Cole, has withdrawn from the party’s gubernatorial primaries ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Cole announced his withdrawal in a statement issued on Wednesday, saying the decision was taken in the interest of party unity, peace and collective progress.
The former governorship candidate of the APC said his action followed a recent stakeholders’ meeting convened by the national leadership of the party, where discussions were held on the future of the Rivers APC and the need to present a united front ahead of the elections.
According to him, extensive consultations were also held with members of his political team, associates, supporters and other stakeholders before arriving at the decision.
“As a committed democrat and a firm believer in the supremacy of strong institutions as the foundation for sustainable development, I have consistently advocated for dialogue, reconciliation, and unity among the various stakeholders and factions within the Rivers State chapter of our great party, the APC,” he stated.
“Following that meeting, and after extensive consultations with members of my political team, associates, supporters, and other key stakeholders, I have taken the decision, in the overriding interest of party unity, peace, and collective progress, to respect the supremacy of the party and withdraw from the forthcoming primaries.”
Cole pledged his support and cooperation to whoever emerges as the APC candidate at the end of the primaries.
He described the decision as one borne out of patriotism and commitment to the stability and success of both the APC and Rivers State.
The APC chieftain thanked party faithful, women groups, youths, elders and supporters across the state for standing by him throughout his political journey.
He, however, assured that despite stepping aside from the contest, he remained committed to the ideals and aspirations that brought his supporters together and would continue to work for the development of Rivers State.
Cole also urged his supporters to remain peaceful and cooperate with the leadership of the APC in preparation for the 2027 elections.
“Let us unite and work together to secure victory for our President, our party, and all APC candidates in the 2027 General Elections,” he added.
