Rivers State Governork, Siminalayi Fubara, on Wednesday announced his withdrawal from the All Progressives Congress governorship primary ahead of the 2027 election in the state. The governor made the decision after consultations with his family, political allies and close associates as political tensions continue to shape the state’s political environment.
Fubara disclosed that he would support whoever emerges as the APC governorship candidate, saying the interest of Rivers State should come before personal ambition. He explained that peace, unity and stability in the state were more important than individual political goals at a time when political alignments are changing ahead of the next general election.
The governor also appreciated his supporters for standing by him throughout the political process. He acknowledged the sacrifices made by many of them and admitted that some party members and loyalists might feel disappointed by his decision to leave the race. He stated that his silence in recent weeks was intentional and guided by what he described as the broader interest of the state.
Fubara’s withdrawal came shortly after APC chieftain and governorship aspirant, Tonye Cole, also stepped down from the contest. Cole had explained that his decision was aimed at protecting unity within the party in Rivers State.
The governor hinted that there were deeper political pressures surrounding the primary process but avoided revealing details publicly. He maintained that keeping certain matters private was necessary to preserve peace and avoid further tension in the state.
Fubara also thanked Bola Tinubu and the APC leadership for the support and encouragement he received during the political process. He urged party members to remain loyal to the APC and continue working together despite the recent developments surrounding the governorship race.
He insisted that his withdrawal should not be seen as fear or weakness but as a sacrifice made for the sake of peace and stability in Rivers State. According to him, leadership sometimes requires personal interests to be set aside for the greater good of the people.
The political crisis involving Fubara began shortly after he became governor in 2023 with the backing of his predecessor, Nyesom Wike. Their relationship later broke down over disagreements linked to political control, appointments and state governance.
The dispute later expanded into a wider political battle involving the Rivers State House of Assembly led by Speaker Martin Amaewhule, who remained loyal to Wike. The crisis led to court cases, political confrontations and repeated disputes over the control of the Assembly.
In March 2025, President Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State and suspended Fubara, his deputy and members of the state assembly for six months following the prolonged political crisis. Retired naval officer Ibok-Ete Ibas was later appointed as sole administrator during the period.
Fubara eventually returned to office after political negotiations reportedly linked to agreements aimed at restoring peace between the governor’s camp and political forces loyal to Wike.
Despite his withdrawal from the APC governorship primary, the political situation in Rivers State remains one of the major issues shaping preparations for the 2027 elections.