Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has announced his withdrawal from the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primaries ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a statement personally signed by the governor, Fubara described the decision as difficult but necessary, explaining that the interests of Rivers State must outweigh personal political ambitions.
According to him, the decision followed extensive consultations with family members, friends, and political associates. He noted that preserving peace, unity, and stability in the state was paramount at a time of heightened political tension.
“Leadership is ultimately about sacrifice,” Fubara stated. “There comes a time when personal ambition must yield to the greater good of the people. Rivers State is bigger than any individual.”
The governor urged his supporters to remain calm and continue to support the APC, assuring them that their commitment and sacrifices throughout the political process had not been in vain.
While acknowledging the disappointment that his withdrawal may cause among loyalists, Fubara hinted at the existence of political pressures surrounding the contest but chose not to disclose specific details.
“As our elders say, not everything a hunter sees in the forest is spoken of in the marketplace,” he 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.”
Fubara reaffirmed his loyalty to the APC and pledged to support whoever eventually emerges as the party’s governorship candidate. He also expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for what he described as encouragement and support during the political process.
The governor insisted that his decision should not be interpreted as weakness or surrender but rather as a deliberate sacrifice aimed at safeguarding the state’s stability.
Political observers say the withdrawal could reshape the dynamics of the APC governorship race in Rivers State, where internal alignments and power struggles have continued to attract national attention ahead of the 2027 elections.
Despite stepping away from the primary contest, Fubara assured residents that he remains committed to delivering on his responsibilities as governor and will continue to serve the people of Rivers State with dedication until the end of his tenure.
