Fidelia Soriwei, Abuja
Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, has withdrawn from the All Progressives Congress governorship primaries ahead of the 2027 elections.
Fubara announced his decision in a statement issued on Tuesday, saying he reached the decision after consultations with his family, friends and political associates.
The governor said he would support whoever emerges as the candidate of the All Progressives Congress in the governorship race.
According to him, the interest, peace and unity of Rivers State must take precedence over personal ambition.
“Leadership is ultimately about sacrifice. There comes a time when personal ambition must yield to the greater good of the people,” he stated.
“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.”
Fubara expressed appreciation to his supporters for standing by him throughout the political process despite what he described as difficult moments and sacrifices.
He said his silence in recent weeks was deliberate and guided by the larger interest of the state.
“As our elders say, not everything a hunter sees in the forest is spoken of in the marketplace. 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,” he said.
The governor also thanked the APC for providing him with a political platform and acknowledged the support of President Bola Tinubu.
“I sincerely thank our great party, the All Progressives Congress, for the platform and support extended to me throughout this process,” he said.
“I also express my profound appreciation to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his support and encouragement.”
Fubara urged party members and supporters to remain united and committed to the APC as preparations for the 2027 elections continue.
He maintained that his withdrawal from the governorship primary should not be interpreted as weakness or surrender.
“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.
The governor added that he remained committed to serving the people of Rivers State until the expiration of his tenure.
