JUST IN: Fubara quilts, withdraws from Rivers APC primaries

Governor Siminalayi Fubara has pulled out of the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primaries in Rivers ahead of the 2027 elections, citing the need to protect peace and unity in the state.

The governor announced his withdrawal in a statement released on Wednesday in Port Harcourt, bringing an end to growing speculation surrounding his political future within the APC.

Fubara said the decision was reached after wide consultations with family members, political allies and close associates.

According to him, the interest of Rivers State must take priority over personal political ambition.

“Leadership is ultimately about sacrifice. There comes a time when personal ambition must yield to the greater good of the people,” he said.

“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.”

The governor assured party faithful that he remains committed to the APC and would fully support whoever emerges as the party’s governorship candidate.

Describing the APC as a collective political family, Fubara urged supporters not to lose faith in the party despite his withdrawal from the contest.

He also appealed to loyalists who may feel disappointed by the development, acknowledging the sacrifices made by supporters throughout the political process.

“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 stated.

“But please know that your loyalty and trust were never in vain.”

Fubara further explained that his silence over recent political developments in the state had been deliberate and guided by the need to avoid actions capable of escalating tension.

“As our elders say, not everything a hunter sees in the forest is spoken of in the marketplace,” he said.

“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.”

The Rivers governor also appreciated President Bola Tinubu for his support and encouragement during the period.

He, however, stressed that his decision to withdraw should not be seen 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,” he said.

Fubara reaffirmed his determination to continue serving the people of Rivers State until the completion of his tenure as governor.