Governor Siminalayi Fubara has announced his withdrawal from the governorship primary election of the All Progressives Congress in Rivers State, declaring support for whoever emerges as the party’s flagbearer.
In a statement personally signed on Wednesday, Fubara said the decision followed 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,” the governor stated.
He said the interest of Rivers State must come ahead of personal ambition, stressing that peace, unity and stability in the state remain more important than individual political interests.
Fubara also appreciated supporters who stood by him throughout his political journey, assuring them that their sacrifices and loyalty would not be forgotten.
The governor, who defected from the Peoples Democratic Party to the APC, said his silence during recent political tensions was intentional and should not be mistaken for fear.
According to him, every decision he made during the crisis period was guided by the overall interest of Rivers State and its people.
“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,” he said.
“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.”
Fubara further explained that his quiet approach during certain moments was strategic and aimed at preserving stability in 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, the governor said wisdom sometimes requires restraint, especially during periods of political tension.
“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.
“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 also thanked the APC leadership for the opportunity and support given to him throughout the political process. He equally expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his encouragement and backing.
Describing the APC as a shared political family, the governor urged members and supporters to remain united and committed to strengthening the party ahead of future elections.
“I sincerely thank our great party, the All Progressives Congress, for the platform and support extended to me throughout this process,” he said.
“I also express my profound appreciation to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his support and encouragement.”
Fubara encouraged party loyalists to remain focused as efforts continue toward building a stronger and more united APC in Rivers State.
“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.
The governor stressed that his withdrawal from the Rivers State governorship contest should not be viewed as weakness or surrender.
According to him, the decision was made out of sacrifice and conviction in order to preserve peace and unity in 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.
Fubara reaffirmed his commitment to continue serving the people of Rivers State until the expiration of his tenure.
Political feud with Wike
For much of his administration, Fubara has remained locked in a political battle with his predecessor and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, over 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 prolonged political standoff later prompted President Tinubu to suspend Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly in March 2025.
Following the suspension, retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas was appointed as sole administrator of the state during the emergency period.
The emergency rule was eventually lifted after reconciliation meetings involving Tinubu, Fubara, Wike, Amaewhule and other political stakeholders, paving the way for the return of the suspended officials after months of political uncertainty.