A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and 2027 governorship aspirant in Rivers State, Tonye Cole, has withdrawn from the race, citing the need to preserve unity within the party.
Cole was among the aspirants expected to participate in the APC governorship primary scheduled for Thursday. He previously contested the Rivers State governorship election in 2023.
Other aspirants seeking the party’s ticket ahead of the 2027 general elections include the incumbent governor, Siminalayi Fubara; former Commissioner for Works, Dakorinama George-Kelly; and the Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, Kingsley Chinda.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Cole described the decision as difficult but necessary, saying it followed extensive consultations and resolutions reached during meetings convened by the APC national leadership on the future of the party in Rivers State.
According to him, the move was made in the interest of party unity, peace, and collective progress.
Cole, who described himself as a loyal party member and committed democrat, said he has consistently advocated dialogue, reconciliation, and unity among stakeholders and factions within the Rivers APC.
Part of the statement read: “I would like to address an important development regarding tomorrow’s primaries.
“As a committed democrat and 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.
“In recent days, the national leadership of our party convened a critical stakeholders’ meeting during which far-reaching discussions were held on the future of the Rivers APC and the imperative of presenting a united front ahead of the primaries and the 2027 general elections.
“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 formally announced his withdrawal from the race and pledged support for whoever emerges as the party’s candidate.
He said the decision was driven by “deep reflection, patriotism, and an unwavering commitment” to the stability and success of both the APC and Rivers State.
The former governorship candidate also expressed gratitude to party supporters, youths, women groups, elders, and other stakeholders who stood by him throughout his campaign.
Although stepping aside from the contest, Cole reaffirmed his commitment to the ideals of the APC and pledged to continue working for the development of Rivers State and the party’s success ahead of the 2027 elections.
He also urged his supporters to remain peaceful and cooperate fully with the party leadership in order to secure victory for the APC in the general elections.
