Former governorship aspirant, Tonye P. Cole, has formally withdrawn from the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primaries in Rivers State, saying the decision was necessary to preserve unity and stability within the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a statement issued on Wednesday evening, Cole said the move followed wide consultations with party stakeholders, supporters, and members of his political team after a recent high-level stakeholders’ meeting convened by the national leadership of the APC.
He explained that the meeting centred on the future of the Rivers APC and the need for members to close ranks and present a united front ahead of the primaries and the 2027 polls.
Cole noted that, as a “committed democrat” and advocate of strong institutions, he had consistently promoted dialogue, reconciliation, and cooperation among various factions within the party in the state.
According to him, his withdrawal was taken “in the overriding interest of party unity, peace, and collective progress,” stressing that he remained committed to respecting the supremacy of the party.
The former aspirant further pledged his support for whoever eventually emerges as the APC governorship candidate after the primaries.
“This decision was not made lightly,” Cole said. “It is the product of deep reflection, patriotism, and an unwavering commitment to the stability, growth, and success of our great party and our beloved state.”
