A prominent chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State, Tonye Patrick Cole, has officially withdrawn from the party’s gubernatorial primaries ahead of the 2027 elections, citing the need for unity, peace, and party supremacy.
In a statement released on Wednesday evening, Cole explained that his decision followed extensive consultations with party stakeholders and supporters.
According to him, the move was made in the collective interest of the APC and the political stability of Rivers State.Cole stated that although the decision was difficult, it reflected his commitment to democratic values, strong institutions, and the long-term success of the party.
“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.
The former governorship aspirant stressed that his withdrawal should not be seen as a sign of weakness, but rather as a demonstration of patriotism and loyalty to the APC. He further pledged to support whoever eventually emerges as the party’s governorship candidate.
Cole also appreciated party faithful, youths, women groups, elders, and supporters across Rivers State who stood by him throughout the political process. He urged them to remain calm, peaceful, and cooperative with the party leadership ahead of the 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.
In a related development, Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara also announced his withdrawal from the APC governorship primaries scheduled for Thursday.
In a personally signed statement titled “My Decision to Withdraw from the Rivers State Gubernatorial Primaries,” Governor Fubara confirmed that he would no longer participate in the contest and promised to fully support the eventual candidate of the party.
The twin withdrawals have sparked fresh political conversations within Rivers State, with analysts suggesting that the developments could reshape the political calculations ahead of the 2027 governorship race.
Political observers believe the decisions by both Cole and Fubara may have been influenced by ongoing reconciliation efforts within the APC as the party seeks to strengthen internal unity and improve its chances in future elections.
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The latest developments have also generated reactions among party members and residents, many of whom view the withdrawals as strategic moves aimed at avoiding internal divisions and ensuring cohesion within the party structure ahead of the polls.
