An aspirant for the Rivers State governorship seat, Tonye Cole, has withdrawn from the Rivers State All Progressives Congress (APC) gubernatorial primaries scheduled for Thursday.
Naija News reorts that Cole announced his decision in a statement on Wednesday, 20th May.
According to him, the overriding interest of peace, reconciliation, and the supremacy of the party informed his decision to step down from the race.
The politician added that he consulted with stakeholders and his supporters before making the decision to bow out of the race.
Cole, who described himself as a committed democrat and advocate for strong institutions, pledged his full support and cooperation to whoever emerges as the APC candidate at the end of the primaries.
“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.
“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,” Cole stated.
The aspirant expressed profound gratitude to his teeming supporters, including party faithful, women groups, youths, elders, and well-meaning Rivers people who stood by him throughout the process.
He urged all his supporters to remain calm and peaceful, and to fully cooperate with the leadership of the party.
“Let us unite and work together to secure victory for our President, our party, and all APC candidates in the 2027 General Elections,” he added.
