TONYE COLE WITHDRAWS FROM RIVERS APC GUBERNATORIAL PRIMARIES, CITES PARTY UNITY

Port Harcourt, Rivers State | May 20, 2026

Former governorship candidate and chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, Tonye P. Cole, has announced his withdrawal from the Rivers State APC gubernatorial primaries scheduled for Thursday.
In a statement released on Wednesday evening, Cole said his decision was taken in the overriding interest of peace, reconciliation, and the supremacy of the party following extensive consultations with 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,” he stated.

Cole, who described himself as a committed democrat and advocate of strong institutions, pledged his full support and cooperation to whoever eventually emerges as the party’s governorship candidate.
According to him, the decision was reached after deep reflection and consideration of the need to sustain harmony within the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.

“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,” he added.

The former aspirant expressed appreciation to his supporters across Rivers State, including party faithful, women groups, youths, elders, and other stakeholders who stood by him throughout the process.

He also appealed to his supporters to remain calm, peaceful, and committed to the ideals of the party, while urging them to cooperate fully with the leadership of the APC.
“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.