Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, has announced his withdrawal from the governorship primary election of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state.
Fubara disclosed his decision in a personally signed statement issued on Wednesday, stating that he would support whoever eventually emerges as the party’s governorship candidate.
According to the governor, 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,” he stated.
The governor said the interest of Rivers State must come before personal ambition, stressing that peace, unity and stability in the state were more important than political considerations.
Fubara thanked his supporters for their loyalty, sacrifices and steadfast support throughout his political journey, while acknowledging that many may feel disappointed by his decision.
“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,” he said.
He explained that his silence in recent months amid political tensions in the state was intentional and guided by the need to protect the interests of Rivers people.
“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 noted that not every challenge or experience should be publicly discussed, saying restraint was sometimes necessary to preserve peace and pursue a greater purpose.
Fubara also expressed appreciation to the APC leadership for the platform and support extended to him during the political process.
He further thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his encouragement and backing.
Describing the APC as a collective political family, the governor urged party members and supporters to remain united and committed to strengthening the party.
He maintained that his withdrawal from the governorship race should not be interpreted as weakness or surrender, insisting that the decision was made out of conviction and sacrifice for the stability of Rivers 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 also reaffirmed his commitment to continue serving the people of Rivers State until the end of his tenure.
