APC Rivers Governorship Primaries: Fubara, Cole, Kelly bow out
The embattled Governor of River state Siminalayi Fubara has withdrawn from today , Thursday 21 May 2026 APC Governorship primary, citing peace, unity and progress of Rivers state as reasons for withdrawal.
This is just as Tonye Cole and George Kelly also thrown in the towels referenced party unity, internal cohesion and party stability ahead of 2027 general elections.
The coordinated withdrawals, coming within a compressed timeframe following high-level consultations within the party structure.
This was as Governor Siminalayi Fubara, in a personally signed statement, announced his exit from the APC governorship primaries, describing his withdrawal as a difficult but necessary move anchored on the broader interest of the State.
He said the decision followed extensive reflection and consultations with family, friends, and political associates, stressing that leadership often demands sacrifice and the subordination of personal ambition.
He stated, “Leadership is ultimately about sacrifice. There comes a time when personal ambition must yield to the greater good of the people. Rivers State is bigger than any individual, and at this critical moment, the peace, stability, and unity of our dear state must take precedence over every personal interest.”
Fubara expressed appreciation to his supporters, acknowledging their loyalty and sacrifices, while reaffirming his commitment to continue serving the people of Rivers State in other capacities.
Similarly, Tonye Cole also formally withdrew from the race, grounding his decision on party supremacy and the need to strengthen cohesion within the APC ahead of the 2027 elections.
Cole said his decision followed a critical stakeholders’ meeting convened by the national leadership of the party, where discussions focused on unity and electoral strategy.
“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 stated.
He added that after consultations with his political network, he resolved to step down in the interest of peace and pledged support for whoever emerges as the party’s candidate.
Cole also expressed gratitude to party members, support groups, elders, and youths for their backing throughout his political engagement.
George-Kelly Dakorinama, who also withdrew from the party’s primary election, stated that his decision followed consultations with members of his political team and critical stakeholders after the stakeholders’ meeting convened by the national leadership of the party.
He described himself as a committed member of the Rivers State Rainbow Coalition for President Bola Tinubu under the leadership of Chief Nyesom Wike, stating that his decision was taken in the overriding interest of party cohesion.
George-Kelly said the meeting focused on the future of the APC in Rivers State and the need for solidarity and strategic alignment ahead of the primaries and the 2027 general elections, pledging full support to whoever emerges as the party’s flag bearer.
He said, “Following that meeting, and after wide consultations with members of my political team and other critical stakeholders, I have taken the decision, in the overriding interest of party unity and in deference to the supremacy of the party, to withdraw from the forthcoming primaries.”
“Accordingly, I hereby formally announce my withdrawal from the race and pledge my unwavering support, loyalty, and cooperation to whoever emerges as the party’s candidate at the conclusion of the primaries.
“My political journey has always been guided by leadership, loyalty, and respect for constituted authority. I remain steadfast in my belief that power ultimately comes from God, for “the counsel of the Lord standeth for ever.”— Psalm 33:11.”
“The 2027 General Elections present us with a defining opportunity, and I remain fully committed to playing my part in securing victory for our President, our party, and the good people of Rivers State,” he added.
He also reaffirmed loyalty to the administration of President Bola Tinubu and the APC, urging members to sustain unity and strategic focus.
Political observers suggest the simultaneous withdrawals of the APC aspirants may be an attempt by the party’s leadership to streamline its governorship selection process and avoid post-primary fragmentation and eventual litigation.
