Former governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State, Tonye Cole, has withdrawn from the party’s governorship primary election scheduled for Thursday.
Cole announced his withdrawal in a statement issued on Wednesday, saying the decision was taken in the interest of unity, peace, and progress within the Rivers State chapter of the APC.
The former two-time gubernatorial candidate said he stepped down after extensive consultations with members of his political team, supporters, and key stakeholders following a recent meeting convened by the national leadership of the party.
According to him, the meeting focused on the future of the APC in Rivers State and the need for stakeholders to present a united front ahead of the governorship primary and the 2027 general elections.
Cole said he chose to respect the supremacy of the party and withdraw from the race to promote reconciliation, stability, and cohesion within the APC.
He also pledged his support and cooperation to whoever emerges as the party’s gubernatorial candidate at the conclusion of the primary election.
Describing the move as difficult but necessary, Cole said the decision was driven by patriotism and his commitment to the growth of the party and the development of Rivers State.
He commended party faithful, women’s groups, youths, elders, and supporters across the state for their support throughout his political journey.
Cole assured his supporters that he remained committed to the ideals and aspirations that united them, adding that he would continue to work for the progress of the APC and the development of Rivers State.
He further urged his supporters to remain peaceful and cooperate with the party leadership to ensure victory for the APC and its candidates in the 2027 general elections.
