Governorship candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC0, and his running mate who is a Nollywood star, Tonto Dike, have stepped down from the Rivers State governorship race.
The duo said the decision was hinged on forming formidable alliance with the All Progressives Congress (APC) to produce the next governor of the state.
The decision of the party was disclosed by its Governorship Candidate, Tonte Ibraye at a media briefing which was also attended by the APC Candidate, Tonye Cole in Port Harcourt on Thursday.
He said Cole was chosen as the “unifier of the opposite parties” following his track records as a successful businessman and detribalised politician.
The ADC governorship candidate, Tonte Ibraye appealed to the other candidates in the Rivers West Senatorial District where he and Cole come from to support the APC.
READ ALSO
VIDEO: Amaechi receives rousing welcome in PH market during visit
He denied that he and Dike or the leaders of the party were paid to take the decision.
He, however, said the Assembly candidates of the ADC are still in the race.
Responding to the last-minute favourable decision, the APC Candidate said the event marks a new beginning for the restoration of a progressives Rivers State.
He described the ADC governorship and deputy governorship candidates as people of integrity who downplayed monetary gains for a progressive Rivers State.
He stated with confidence that he will win the March 18 governorship election in the state.
Cole called on the residents of the state to be courageous to step out to vote, noting that the military and the police have assured of security.
He emphasised the need for the protection of votes, urging the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to make sure that results are uploaded online from the polling units.
He noted that no one can rig the election because his party, the APC has done thorough work to ensure that no unauthorised persons will be found at the collation centres in the state.