A fresh political storm has erupted in Rivers State after Governor Siminalayi Fubara dramatically announced his withdrawal from the All Progressives Congress (APC) gubernatorial primaries, citing “immense pressures,” sacrifice, and the need to preserve peace and unity in the oil-rich state.
In a personally signed statement issued on Wednesday, the governor said his decision followed “deep reflection and extensive consultations” with family, friends, and political associates, bringing an abrupt twist to an already tense political atmosphere ahead of the 2027 governorship race in Rivers State.
Fubara, who recently aligned with the APC amid the lingering political crisis in Rivers, declared that leadership sometimes demands personal sacrifice, insisting that the interest of the state must come before individual ambition.
“I have taken the difficult but necessary decision to withdraw from the APC gubernatorial primaries,” the governor stated, adding that he would fully support whoever eventually emerges as the party’s candidate.
The governor’s withdrawal comes amid growing political tensions within the Rivers APC, with several individuals perceived to be loyal to him reportedly disqualified from various party primaries in recent days.
In the emotional statement, Fubara acknowledged the disappointment his supporters might feel, especially after months of political mobilisation and sacrifices made on his behalf.
“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,” he said.
He, however, hinted at undisclosed political pressures surrounding his decision, using a proverb to suggest that some realities were better left unsaid.
“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,” the statement read.
Fubara maintained that his withdrawal should not be interpreted as weakness or surrender, stressing that he stepped aside “out of conviction and sacrifice” to allow Rivers State move forward peacefully.
The governor also expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for what he described as support and encouragement throughout the process, while reaffirming his loyalty to the APC.
“I remain committed to serving the good people of Rivers State till the end of my term,” he added.
His decision is expected to reshape the political calculations within the Rivers APC ahead of the party’s governorship primary scheduled for May 21.
Reports earlier indicated that Fubara had been screened and cleared for the APC governorship primary before his sudden withdrawal announcement.
