Fubara withdraws from Rivers APC gov'ship lrimaries, cites peace and unity

By Johnson Arua

Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has announced his withdrawal from the All Progressives Congress, APC, gubernatorial primaries ahead of the 2026 governorship election in the state.

Fubara, in a press statement issued on Wednesday, said the decision followed “deep reflection and extensive consultations” with family, friends, and associates.

The governor explained that his withdrawal was driven by the need to protect the peace, stability, and unity of Rivers State, stressing that leadership demands sacrifice and commitment to the collective good above personal ambition.

According to him, “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.”

Fubara pledged his support for whoever emerges as the flag bearer of the APC, describing the ruling party as the “collective home” of its members and supporters.

The governor also expressed appreciation to his supporters for their loyalty and sacrifices throughout his political journey, acknowledging the disappointment many of them may feel following his decision.

He noted that his silence in recent weeks had been “deliberate and strategic,” adding that he had faced “immense pressures and difficult choices” but chose restraint in the interest of peace.

“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 stated.

Fubara thanked the APC leadership for the support extended to him during the process and also expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his encouragement.

He, however, maintained that his withdrawal should not be interpreted as an act of weakness or surrender.

“Let it be clearly understood that I stepped aside from participating in the upcoming Rivers State gubernatorial 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,” the governor said.

Fubara reaffirmed his commitment to continue serving the people of Rivers State until the end of his tenure.