Tonye Cole, a former All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in Rivers, has also formally withdrawn from the party’s primary election in the state ahead of Thursday’s exercise.
Cole disclosed his withdrawal in a formal statement issued on Wednesday. His withdrawal meanwhile came shortly after Governor Fubara’s withdrawal from the APC governorship primary.
Tonye Cole also stated that the decision followed consultations with members of his political team, supporters, and stakeholders within the APC in Rivers state.
Ahead of the 2027 general election, the former governorship candidate said he decided to step down to promote party unity and reconciliation.
He further added that the APC’s national leadership recently convened a stakeholders’ meeting to discuss the party’s future in Rivers State.
Additionally, he said he remained committed to dialogue, reconciliation, and unity among various factions within the APC in Rivers.
He said, “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.
“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.”
BACKSTORY…
Meanwhile, Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has formally withdrawn from the All Progressives Congress(APC), governorship primary election in the state.
Fubara announced this shocking development in a statement personally signed on Wednesday, adding that he would support whoever emerges as the party’s candidate.
According to him, although the decision was difficult, he remains committed to supporting whoever emerges as the candidate of the APC in the forthcoming governorship election.
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