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PORT HARCOURT – Tonye Cole, an APC governorship aspirant in Rivers State, has withdrawn from the party’s primaries scheduled for Thursday, citing the need to protect party unity, strengthen internal cohesion, and support collective progress ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a statement he personally signed, Cole said his decision was guided by the need to strengthen unity among stakeholders and factions within the Rivers APC, stressing that strong institutions are central to sustainable political development.
He stated that the party’s national leadership recently convened a critical stakeholders’ meeting where extensive deliberations were held on the future of the Rivers APC, with particular emphasis on the need to present a united front going into both the primaries and the 2027 election cycle.
Cole explained that following the meeting, and after wide consultations with his political team, associates, supporters, and other key stakeholders, he resolved out of respect for party supremacy and in the overriding interest of peace and cohesion to step down from the contest, pledging full support for whoever emerges as the party’s flagbearer at the conclusion of the primaries.
He said, “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.
“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.”
Cole said his decision, though difficult, followed deep reflection guided by patriotism and commitment to the stability and progress of both the APC and Rivers State.
He expressed appreciation to party members, supporters, youth and women groups, elders, and other stakeholders across the state who had supported his aspiration, noting that their loyalty and encouragement had been deeply valued.
“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.
“I wish to sincerely appreciate the thousands of party faithful, supporters, women groups, youths, elders, and well-meaning people of Rivers State who have stood steadfastly with me throughout this journey. Your loyalty, encouragement, and belief in our shared vision have been profoundly humbling and inspiring.”
He stressed that although stepping aside from the contest, he remains committed to the ideals and objectives of the party and will continue to work for its success as well as the development of Rivers State.
Cole however urged his supporters to remain calm, peaceful, and united, calling on them to rally behind the party leadership and work toward victory for the APC and its candidates in the 2027 general elections.
“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.
“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. Let us unite and work together to secure victory for our President, our party, and all APC candidates in the 2027 General Elections,” Cole said.
