Wike’s Ally Withdraws from Rivers Governorship Race Ahead of APC Primary
The race for the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship ticket in Rivers State has taken a new turn as another frontline aspirant, Dr George-Kelly, has withdrawn from the contest ahead of the party’s primary election.
His withdrawal comes at a time of intense political realignments within the APC in Rivers State, where stakeholders have been pushing for unity and internal consolidation ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Dr George-Kelly announced his decision in a personally signed statement issued on Wednesday. He said the move followed wide consultations with members of his political structure and key stakeholders after a recent meeting convened by the national leadership of the party.
He explained that the discussions centred on strengthening cohesion within the party and ensuring a united front going into the primaries and the next general elections.
The aspirant, who described himself as a committed member of the Rivers State Rainbow Coalition for President Bola Tinubu under the leadership of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, said his decision was taken in the overall interest of party unity and discipline.
With his withdrawal, attention has now shifted to the remaining aspirants in the race, including Ok Chinda, who is widely described as an ally and kinsman of the FCT Minister’s political camp.
Earlier, two other major figures had already stepped down from the governorship contest, including the suspended Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, and businessman Tonye Cole, further reshaping the contest within the party.
George-Kelly said his political decision aligns with what he described as the supremacy of the party and the need for collective progress. He added that he remains loyal to the APC and committed to its success in the coming elections.
He also reaffirmed his support for President Bola Tinubu, stating that unity within the party remains critical ahead of 2027.
In his words:
“As we prepare for tomorrow’s primaries, I consider it necessary to address a few important issues as a committed believer in the Rivers State Rainbow Coalition for President Bola Tinubu, under the leadership of my leader, Barrister Nyesom Ezenwo Wike.
“In recent days, the national leadership of our great party convened a crucial stakeholders’ meeting, during which extensive and far-reaching deliberations were undertaken regarding the future of the APC in Rivers State and the imperative of fostering cohesion, solidarity, and strategic alignment ahead of the primaries and the 2027 General Elections.
“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.”
