Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers has withdrawn from the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primary in the state, declaring that he would fully support whoever emerges as the party’s candidate.
The governor announced his decision in a personally signed statement issued on Wednesday, describing the move as difficult but necessary after what he called extensive consultations with family members, 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 stated.
According to him, the interest of Rivers State must come ahead of individual ambition, especially at a time when the state requires peace, unity and political stability.
The governor stressed that preserving harmony in the state remained more important than pursuing personal political goals, adding that every decision he had taken in recent months was guided by the welfare of Rivers people.
Fubara also expressed appreciation to supporters who stood by him throughout his political journey, acknowledging the sacrifices, prayers and loyalty they invested in him over the years.
“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. Much has indeed been invested and much sacrificed along the way.
”But please know that your loyalty and trust were never in vain, ” he said.
The governor, who recently moved from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC, said his silence during periods of intense political pressure should not be interpreted as fear or weakness.
He explained that his quiet approach was deliberate and aimed at protecting the larger interest of the state.
“My silence over this period was deliberate and strategic, guided always by the higher interest of our state and our people,” he added.
Quoting a local proverb, Fubara said wisdom sometimes demands restraint, particularly during politically sensitive periods.
“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,” he said.
“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.”
Fubara further thanked the APC leadership for the opportunity and support given to him during the political process.
He also extended appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for his encouragement and backing.
“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.
The governor urged APC members and supporters across Rivers State to remain united and committed to building a stronger party ahead of future political activities.
“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 added.
Fubara maintained that his withdrawal from the governorship race should not be seen as surrender or political defeat, insisting that the decision was made out of sacrifice and conviction for the stability of the state.
“Let it be clearly understood that I stepped aside from participating in the upcoming Rivers State governorship 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,” he said.
He reaffirmed his commitment to continue serving the people of Rivers State until the completion of his tenure.
Feud With Wike
For most of his administration, Governor Fubara has been locked in a prolonged political battle with his predecessor and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, over the control of political structures in Rivers State.
The crisis deepened after lawmakers loyal to Wike, led by Martin Amaewhule, initiated moves to impeach the governor.
The political tension later prompted President Tinubu to suspend Fubara, his deputy, Ngozi Odu, and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly in March 2025 following months of political deadlock.
During the period of emergency rule, retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas was appointed as sole administrator of the state.
However, six months later, the emergency rule was lifted, paving the way for Fubara, his deputy and the lawmakers to return to office.
The resolution followed a reconciliation meeting involving President Tinubu, Fubara, Wike, Amaewhule and other political stakeholders aimed at restoring peace in the state
