Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has announced his withdrawal from the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primaries, citing the need to preserve peace, unity and stability in the state.
In a statement released on Wednesday night, Fubara said the decision followed extensive consultations with his family, political associates and supporters.
According to him, leadership sometimes requires sacrifice, stressing that the interest of Rivers State must come before personal ambition.
The governor acknowledged the disappointment his supporters may feel, noting that many people had invested time, energy and resources in his political aspiration.
He, however, maintained that his silence in recent weeks was intentional and guided by the need to protect the overall interest of the state.
Fubara disclosed that he had faced enormous pressure and difficult choices but insisted that his decision to step aside should not be seen as an act of weakness, fear or surrender.
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He thanked the APC leadership and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for their support and encouragement throughout the process, while urging party faithful to remain united ahead of future political engagements.
The governor also pledged continued commitment to serving Rivers people till the end of his tenure.
Tonye Cole Dumps Guber Race
In a related development, former governorship candidate, Tonye Cole, also withdrew from the race.
Cole said his decision was reached after consultations with party stakeholders and in recognition of the supremacy of the APC.
He explained that unity, reconciliation and peace within the party informed his action.
The businessman and politician pledged support for whoever eventually emerges as the party’s candidate and called on his supporters to remain peaceful and loyal to the party ahead of the 2027 elections.
Wike Camp Mocks Fubara
Meanwhile, the camp of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has reacted to Fubara’s withdrawal.
Lere Olayinka, media aide to Wike, claimed the governor had become politically isolated, alleging that none of the political structures in the state remained loyal to him.
In several posts on social media, Olayinka said Fubara had no candidates contesting for Senate, House of Representatives or State Assembly seats, while also alleging that no local government chairman or councillor was currently backing the governor.
He questioned Fubara’s claim that he did not step aside out of fear or weakness, arguing that the governor had lost political control in the state.
Olayinka also shared an old video clip in which Fubara reportedly compared Wike’s outbursts to the barking of a dog.
Rafiyat Sadiq is a political, justice, and human rights reporter with Pinnacle Daily, known for fearless reporting and impactful storytelling. At Pinnacle Daily, she brings clarity and depth to issues shaping governance, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ rights.