Another APC Aspirant, George Kelly, Withdraws From Rivers Governorship Race, Cites Party Unity Ahead Of 2027

Another APC Aspirant, George-Kelly, Withdraws From Rivers Governorship Race, Cites Party Unity Ahead of 2027 Another governorship aspirant of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State, Dr. Alabo Dakorinama George-Kelly, has withdrawn from the party’s governorship primary, citing party unity, reconciliation, and support for leadership efforts aimed at stabilising the political atmosphere ahead of the 2027 general elections. The development comes shortly after reports of increasing consensus-building within the Rivers APC, where several aspirants have stepped down in favour of broader party cohesion In a statement confirming his decision, George-Kelly said his withdrawal followed consultations with political associates, stakeholders, and party leaders. He explained that the decision was made in the overall interest of the APC, stressing that the party must remain united to achieve electoral success in 2027.

He also pledged his full support for the candidate eventually selected by the party leadership, adding that internal competition should not weaken the APC’s chances in Rivers State. George-Kelly’s withdrawal is the latest in a series of similar decisions by APC governorship aspirants in the state, as the party continues efforts to reduce internal tensions and consolidate support behind a single candidate. The move follows growing calls within the party for reconciliation among key political blocs and stakeholders, especially amid the lingering political realignments in Rivers State. George-Kelly, a technocrat and politician from the Kalabari axis of Rivers State, previously served as Commissioner for Works under former Governor Nyesom Wike and retained his position under Governor Siminalayi Fubara before resigning during the height of political tensions in the state. He also contested the 2022 PDP governorship primary, where he emerged second to Governor Fubara, and was later appointed Director-General of the Border Communities Development Agency. Party insiders say the wave of withdrawals signals a strategic shift toward consensus candidacy within the Rivers APC, as leadership seeks to avoid a divisive primary election. The party is expected to intensify consultations with stakeholders in the coming days to finalise its governorship flag bearer and strengthen unity ahead of the 2027 elections. Analysts suggest that the withdrawal of multiple aspirants, including high-profile figures, could reshape the Rivers APC political structure and reduce internal conflict that has historically affected the party’s performance in the state.

However, they also note that sustaining unity beyond the primaries will be critical to ensuring electoral competitiveness in the coming general elections.