Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has officially withdrawn from the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primary election, citing the need to preserve peace, unity and political stability in the state.
In a statement personally signed on Wednesday, Fubara said the decision followed wide consultations with family members, political allies and close associates.
The governor stated that although the decision was difficult, he considered it necessary in the overall interest of Rivers State and the APC.
“After deep reflection and extensive consultations with my family, friends, and associates, I have taken the difficult but necessary decision to withdraw from the APC governorship primaries,” he said.
Fubara pledged his full support for whoever eventually emerges as the party’s flagbearer, stressing that leadership sometimes requires personal sacrifice for the greater good.
According to him, the current political atmosphere in Rivers demands unity and reconciliation rather than further division.
“Rivers State is bigger than any individual, and at this critical moment, the peace, stability, and unity of our dear state must take precedence over every personal interest,” the governor stated.
He also appealed to his supporters to remain calm and committed to the party despite the disappointment many may feel over his withdrawal.
Fubara thanked members of the APC leadership as well as President Bola Tinubu for the support and encouragement extended to him throughout the political process.
The governor noted that his silence in recent weeks had been intentional and guided by wisdom, adding that not every political development should be discussed publicly.
“As our elders say, not everything a hunter sees in the forest is spoken of in the marketplace,” he remarked.
He, however, dismissed suggestions that his withdrawal was due to fear, pressure or weakness.
“I stepped aside not out of weakness, fear, or surrender, but out of conviction and sacrifice so that Rivers State may move forward in peace and unity,” he added.
The development comes amid ongoing political realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections and follows the prolonged political crisis in Rivers State involving Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike.
Despite withdrawing from the race, Fubara assured residents that he remains fully committed to governance and would continue serving the people of Rivers State with dedication until the end of his tenure.
