Tonye Cole Dumps Rivers APC Governorship Primaries, Rallies Support for Party Unity

|By Adejumo Adekunle

Tonye Cole has withdrawn from the governorship primaries of the All Progressives Congress in Rivers State, declaring that party unity and stability must take precedence ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the 2027 governorship aspirant said he stepped down after consultations with party leaders, political allies, supporters and other stakeholders following a high-level meeting convened by the APC national leadership.

Cole said the discussions focused on reconciling factions within the Rivers APC and forging a united front before the primaries and the 2027 elections.

He pledged full support for whoever emerges as the party’s candidate, insisting that his decision flowed from “deep reflection, patriotism, and an unwavering commitment” to the growth of the party and the development of Rivers State.

The former aspirant also praised party faithful, youths, women groups and supporters who backed his ambition, describing their loyalty and encouragement as inspiring.

Calling for calm among his supporters, Cole urged members of the APC to unite behind the party leadership and work towards securing victory in the 2027 polls.