Siminalayi Fubara has announced his withdrawal from the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primary election in Rivers State.
Fubara disclosed this in a statement personally signed on Wednesday, saying he had decided to step aside after consultations with family, friends, and political associates.
According to the governor, he would fully support whoever emerges as the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
“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,” he stated.
Fubara said the peace, stability, and unity of Rivers State must take priority over personal political ambitions.
He thanked his supporters for their sacrifices, prayers, and loyalty throughout his political journey, assuring them that their trust and support were not wasted.
The governor also explained that his silence during periods of political tension in recent months was deliberate and guided by the interest of the state and its people.
“My silence over this period was deliberate and strategic, guided always by the higher interest of our state and our people,” he said.
Quoting a local proverb, Fubara noted that not every issue should be publicly discussed, stressing that wisdom and restraint are sometimes necessary to preserve peace.
He maintained that his withdrawal should not be interpreted as weakness, fear, or surrender, but as a sacrifice aimed at ensuring stability in Rivers State.
Fubara also appreciated Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support and encouragement during the political process.
He urged APC members and supporters to remain united and committed to strengthening the party ahead of future elections.
The governor reaffirmed his commitment to continue serving the people of Rivers State until the end of his tenure.
Political Crisis With Wike
For much of his administration, Fubara has been locked in a prolonged political crisis with his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, who supported his emergence as governor in 2023.
The dispute centred on the control of political structures in Rivers State and escalated after lawmakers loyal to Wike, led by Martin Amaewhule, initiated moves to impeach Fubara.
The political tension led President Tinubu to suspend Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly in March 2025 following the prolonged crisis.
Tinubu subsequently appointed retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas as sole administrator of the state during the emergency period.
The emergency rule was later lifted after a reconciliation meeting in June involving Tinubu, Fubara, Wike, Amaewhule, and other political stakeholders.
