Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, has announced his withdrawal from the All Progressives Congress (APC) gubernatorial primaries ahead of the upcoming governorship election in the state.
In a press statement issued on Wednesday, the governor said the decision followed “deep reflection and extensive consultations” with family, friends, and associates, stressing that the peace, stability, and unity of Rivers State must come before personal ambition.
Fubara noted that leadership demands sacrifice, adding that there are moments when individual interests must give way to the collective good of the people.
The governor, however, pledged support for whoever emerges as the party’s candidate, reaffirming his commitment to the APC and the development of Rivers State.
He expressed appreciation to his supporters for their loyalty, prayers, and sacrifices throughout the political process, acknowledging that many may feel disappointed by the decision.
According to him, his silence in recent times was “deliberate and strategic,” guided by the broader interest of the state.
“As our elders say, not everything a hunter sees in the forest is spoken of in the marketplace,” he stated, suggesting that he had faced immense pressure and difficult choices behind the scenes.
Fubara also thanked the All Progressives Congress for the opportunity given to him during the primaries process and extended gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support and encouragement.
He urged party faithful to remain united and committed to building a stronger APC, insisting that his withdrawal should not be interpreted as weakness or surrender.
The governor maintained that he stepped aside out of conviction and sacrifice in order to preserve peace and unity in Rivers State, while pledging to continue serving the people until the expiration of his tenure.