Fubara withdraws from Rivers APC governorship primary

Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has announced his withdrawal from the All Progressives Congress governorship primary election in the state.

 

Fubara disclosed this in a statement personally signed on Wednesday, saying he would support whoever emerges as the party’s candidate.

 

The governor said the decision followed consultations with his family, friends and political associates.

 

“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.

 

“I do so with a full heart and with a firm commitment to support whoever emerges as the candidate of our great party,” Fubara said.

 

He described the move as one guided by the need to prioritise peace, stability and unity in Rivers State.

 

“Leadership is ultimately about sacrifice. There comes a time when personal ambition must yield to 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.

 

Fubara appreciated his supporters for their loyalty, prayers and sacrifices throughout the political process, while acknowledging that some of them may feel disappointed by his decision.

 

“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.

 

“I understand the disappointment, the anger, and the pain many of you may feel,” he said.

 

The governor also explained that his silence in recent weeks was intentional.

 

“My silence over this period was deliberate and strategic, guided always by the higher interest of our state and our people,” he added.

 

Fubara thanked the APC leadership for the opportunity to participate in the process and expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for his support and encouragement.

 

He, however, insisted that his withdrawal should not be interpreted as 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 said.

 

The development comes amid political realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections in Rivers State.

 

Former APC governorship aspirant Tonye Cole had also earlier withdrawn from the race, citing party unity among reasons for his decision.