Tonye Cole Pulls Out of Rivers APC Governorship Primary

Tonye Cole, a former All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in Rivers, has withdrawn from the party’s primary election in the state ahead of Thursday’s exercise.

Cole announced his withdrawal in a statement issued on Wednesday.

His withdrawal came just as Siminalayi Fubara, governor of Rivers, also pulled out of the race.

Cole said the decision followed consultations with members of his political team, supporters, and stakeholders within the APC in Rivers state.

The former governorship candidate said he decided to step down in the interest of party unity and reconciliation ahead of the 2027 general election.

According to him, the national leadership of the APC recently convened a stakeholders’ meeting where discussions were held on the future of the party in Rivers state.

Cole said he remained committed to dialogue, reconciliation, and unity among various factions within the APC in Rivers.

“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,” he said.

“Accordingly, I wish to formally announce my withdrawal from the race and pledge my full support and cooperation to whoever emerges as the party’s candidate at the conclusion of the primaries.

“This decision was not made lightly. 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.”

Cole thanked party members, women’s groups, youths, elders, and supporters across Rivers state for standing by him throughout his campaign.

“Although I may be stepping aside from this contest, I remain fully committed to the ideals, principles, and aspirations that brought us together, and I will continue to work tirelessly for the progress of our party and the development of Rivers State and for the important change we all want to see,” he said.

The APC chieftain also urged his supporters to remain peaceful and cooperate with the leadership of the party ahead of the elections.

“I therefore call on all my supporters to remain calm, peaceful, and steadfast, and to give their full cooperation to the leadership of our great party,” he said.

“Let us unite and work together to secure victory for our President, our party, and all APC candidates in the 2027 General Elections.”