The Rivers State APC governorship primary has recorded yet another major withdrawal as Tonye George-Kelly formally pulled out of the race, citing Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s earlier decision to step down as a key factor influencing his exit.
George-Kelly’s withdrawal adds to a rapidly growing list of high-profile aspirants — including Fubara, Farah Cole, and Chukwuemeka Chinda — who have opted out of the contest, leaving the field increasingly open for Wike-backed candidate, Alabo.
The development points to a widening domino effect triggered by Fubara’s dramatic pull-out, with political insiders suggesting a coordinated realignment may be underway within the anti-Wike bloc of the party.
George-Kelly had been regarded as a credible contender capable of mounting a serious challenge for the APC ticket. His exit further narrows the competitive field and consolidates the emerging consensus around Alabo as the likely APC flag bearer for the 2027 governorship election.
Political observers are watching closely to see whether additional aspirants will follow suit before the primary concludes.
CDA News Nigeria continues to monitor developments and will bring you updates as they emerge.
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