A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State, Emeka Beke, has declared his readiness to work with whoever emerges as the party’s governorship candidate ahead of the 2027 general elections, emphasising unity and internal cohesion as the party’s top priority.
Beke made this known amid rising speculations and political manoeuvring within the APC over the governorship ticket, urging party leaders and stakeholders to place the collective interest of the party above personal ambitions.
According to him, only a united and reconciled APC can present a formidable challenge in Rivers State.
He stressed the need for transparency and fairness in the process leading to the emergence of the party’s flagbearer, calling on leaders to remain neutral and committed to due process in order to inspire confidence among party members.
Warning against actions or utterances capable of deepening internal divisions, Beke noted that internal rivalry and factionalism would only weaken the APC and hand undue advantage to opposition parties.
“Once a candidate emerges through due process, all party stakeholders must close ranks and work together to ensure victory, irrespective of individual preferences before the primaries,” he said.
Beke further urged party members to channel their energy towards strengthening party structures at all levels and engaging the electorate, rather than engaging in activities that could undermine the party’s chances in 2027.
Drawing from his experience as a party chairman, Beke said loyalty should be to the party rather than to individuals.
“I’m a party chairman. When I was party chairman, every candidate who ran in elections was my child. Anybody who emerges tomorrow is my candidate,” he said.
He added, “If I am the authentic chairman, will I attach myself to Tonye Cole or will I attach myself to Siminalayi Fubara? At the end of the day, all are my children. Anybody who emerges tomorrow is my candidate because they are my children.”