Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has officially withdrawn from the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primaries scheduled to hold on Thursday, May 21, ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Fubara announced his decision in a statement, explaining that the move followed what he described as deep reflection and extensive consultations with family members, political associates and close allies.
According to the governor, his decision was driven by the need to prioritise peace, stability and unity in Rivers State above personal political ambition.
“After a deep reflection and extensive consultations with my family, friends, and associates, I have taken the difficult but necessary decision to withdraw from the APC gubernatorial primaries. I do so with a full heart and with a firm commitment to support whoever emerges as the candidate of our great party,” he stated.
The Rivers governor said leadership often requires sacrifice, adding that there are moments when personal interests must give way for the greater good of the people and the state.
“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,” he said.
Fubara also appreciated his supporters for standing by him throughout the political process and acknowledged the sacrifices many of them made during the campaign period.
“To my supporters who stood firmly with me throughout this journey who gave their time, resources, prayers, and unwavering hope, I offer my deepest gratitude,” he said.
“I understand the disappointment, the anger, and the pain many of you may feel. Much has indeed been invested and much sacrificed along the way. But please know that your loyalty and trust were never in vain.”
The governor noted that his silence in recent weeks had been intentional and strategic, insisting that every action he took was guided by the overall interest of Rivers State and its people.
“My silence over this period was deliberate and strategic, guided always by the higher interest of our state and our people,” he explained.
Using a traditional proverb to further explain his position, Fubara hinted that political realities behind his decision could not be openly discussed at the moment.
“As our elders say, not everything a hunter sees in the forest is spoken of in the marketplace. Some truths are best borne quietly, not out of fear, but out of wisdom and restraint for the sake of peace and a greater purpose.”
“It is enough to say that I have faced immense pressures and difficult choices, but my love for Rivers State remains greater than anything else,” he added.
The governor also thanked the APC leadership for giving him the platform throughout the political process and expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his encouragement and support.
“I sincerely thank our great party, the All Progressives Congress, for the platform and support extended to me throughout this process. I also express my profound appreciation to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his support and encouragement,” he stated.
Fubara urged APC members and supporters across Rivers State to remain united and committed to the party despite his withdrawal from the race.
“The APC remains our collective home, and I urge all party faithful and supporters to remain steadfast and committed as we continue to build a stronger and more united future together,” he said.
The governor insisted that his withdrawal should not be viewed as an act of weakness or surrender, maintaining that the decision was taken purely in the interest of peace and unity in the state.
“Let it be clearly understood that I stepped aside from participating in the upcoming River’s state Gubernatorial election not out of weakness, fear, or surrender, but out of conviction and sacrifice so that Rivers State may move forward in peace and unity and I remain committed to serving the good people of Rivers state till the end of my term,” he declared.
The development is expected to reshape the political atmosphere within the APC in Rivers State ahead of the governorship primary election.
What you should know
Siminalayi Fubara’s withdrawal from the APC governorship primaries comes amid growing political tension and internal power struggles in Rivers State ahead of the 2027 elections.
The governor’s statement hinted at behind-the-scenes pressures and political negotiations, although he avoided giving specific details. His decision may significantly influence the APC’s governorship race in the state, especially considering his political influence and support base.
Fubara also used the opportunity to reaffirm loyalty to the APC and President Bola Tinubu while urging supporters to remain peaceful and committed to party unity. Political analysts believe the move could reshape alliances and calculations ahead of the general elections.
