Siminalayi Fubara has announced his withdrawal from the APC governorship primaries in Rivers State, saying the decision was made in the interest of peace, stability and unity in the state.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the Rivers governor said he arrived at the decision after “deep reflection and extensive consultations” with family members, friends and political associates.
Fubara described the move as painful but necessary, stressing that leadership sometimes requires personal sacrifice for the greater good of the people.
“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 stated.
The governor also pledged to support whoever eventually emerges as the candidate of the All Progressives Congress in the governorship race.
In the emotional statement, Fubara acknowledged the disappointment many of his supporters may feel following his withdrawal, especially after months of political mobilisation and sacrifices made by loyalists across the state.
He, however, hinted at behind-the-scenes political pressure and difficult circumstances surrounding the decision, though he stopped short of providing specific details.
“As our elders say, not everything a hunter sees in the forest is spoken of in the marketplace,” Fubara said. “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.”
The governor expressed gratitude to the APC leadership for the opportunity given to him throughout the process and also thanked Bola Tinubu for his support and encouragement.
Despite stepping away from the governorship primaries, Fubara insisted his decision should not be interpreted as weakness, surrender or fear.
“Let it be clearly understood that 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 said.
The development is expected to reshape the political landscape in Rivers State ahead of the 2027 elections, especially amid ongoing realignments within the APC and the broader political tensions in the state.
Fubara also reaffirmed his commitment to continue serving the people of Rivers State for the remainder of his tenure as governor.
