Barely 24 hours before the All Progressives Congress governorship primaries in Rivers State, frontline aspirant and businessman, Tonye Patrick Cole, has withdrawn from the contest, saying his decision was driven by party unity and the interest of Rivers State.
Cole announced his withdrawal on Wednesday evening, explaining that his commitment to democratic values and strong institutions had always guided his political approach.
According to him, he had consistently pushed for dialogue, reconciliation and harmony among the different factions within the Rivers APC.
He recalled that the party’s national leadership recently convened a crucial stakeholders’ meeting where discussions centred on the future of the APC in Rivers and the need to approach the primaries and the 2027 elections with a united front.
Following the meeting and consultations with his political associates, supporters and other stakeholders, Cole said he chose to step aside in deference to party supremacy and collective interest.
“After careful consultations and deep reflection, I have decided, in the overriding interest of peace, unity and progress within our party, to respect the supremacy of the APC and withdraw from the forthcoming governorship primaries,” he stated.
The former governorship candidate pledged his support to whoever emerges as the party’s flagbearer, promising to work with the leadership to secure victory in the 2027 elections.
Cole described the decision as difficult but necessary, insisting it was shaped by patriotism and his enduring commitment to the stability and growth of both the party and Rivers State.
He also expressed appreciation to party members, youth groups, women, elders and supporters who stood by him throughout his political journey.
“I am deeply grateful for the encouragement, loyalty and belief you have shown. Though I am stepping aside from this race, my commitment to the ideals that brought us together remains unchanged,” he said.
Cole urged his supporters to remain calm and peaceful while rallying behind the party leadership and eventual candidate.
He called for unity among APC members, stressing the need to work together for the success of President Bola Tinubu, the party and its candidates in the 2027 general elections.
His withdrawal now narrows the Rivers APC governorship contest to Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Hon. Kingsley Chinda and Dr. Dax Kelly ahead of the primaries.
